St Albans Churches - Groups, Services & Events for Seniors - Summer and Autumn 2024

St Albans Churches

Groups, Services & Events for Seniors

Summer and Autumn 2024

Produced by St Albans Anna Chaplaincy

Welcome!

To the fourth edition of this handy guide to services, groups and events at St Albans’ churches. This guide is not an exhaustive list but covers the churches which o er some sort of hospitality or groups for older people in St Albans.

The guide is aimed at people who are 65+, o ering details on mainly daytime weekday activities which are usually accessible by public transport. The events are generally low cost, and in some cases free. All the listings are hosted by churches from a range of denominations.

We hope this information will provide a handy reference, and encourage you to find out more about what the churches locally o er older people. We would urge you to check online for up-to-date information (this guide was published in April 2024) or call the number listed if you need further details about any groups or events. Some activities need pre-booking and are marked with an orange dot but others, marked with a green dot, you can just drop in on

About St Albans Anna Chaplaincy

You may not have heard about Anna Chaplaincy. Anna Chaplaincy seeks to accompany older people at this age and stage of their lives. It is an ecumenical, community-based chaplaincy promoting the spiritual welfare of older people. Anna Chaplaincy is a person-centred and non-judgemental ministry for people of strong, little or no faith at all.

St Albans Anna Chaplaincy was developed by both Methodist Churches in the city and is now a growing ecumenical team of chaplains. We are also supported by Anna Friends, volunteers who give regular amounts of time to support our ministry. We currently have two commissioned Anna Friends, Jane and Denise, but are looking to commission more, so do get in touch if you think this ministry could be for you.

If you’d like to know more about this ministry or would like to be involved (see p17), please do contact us by email: mrsmaggiedodd@gmail.com or call: 07462 586773 or visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/AnnaChaplaincyStAlbans

You can also find a web page about us at mrmc.org.uk/anna-chaplaincy

Meet the Chaplaincy Team

Maggie Dodd

St Albans Anna Chaplaincy Lead

A Methodist Layworker and full time Anna Chaplain, Maggie (centre in photo) has been in post for three years, developing Anna Chaplaincy locally and further afield. Maggie leads care home worship, o ers pastoral visiting and runs Messy Vintage sessions.

Rev Canon Dr Ruth Goatly

Anna Chaplain, St Mary’s Marshalswick, St Leonard’s Sandridge with Jersey Farm

Rev Ruth works with two Church of England parishes to o er spiritual support in Marshalswick, Jersey Farm and Sandridge. She has been a priest for 15 years and has a doctorate in ministry to older people. She leads worship, o ers home visits and oversees older people’s ministry at St Mary’s.

Peter Curtis

Anna Chaplain, St Peter’s Church

Peter works in the parish of St Peter’s as an Anna Chaplain, and also collaborates with Maggie across the city. Peter makes home visits, o ers pastoral care and leads worship services in care settings and in the community.

What we do

Home visits

Many older people struggle to make it along to church or to get out and about during the week. Pastoral support can be o ered through Anna Chaplains, so do contact us if you would like a visit from one of the team.

Services in retirement flats

Anna Chaplaincy o ers communion services monthly at several retirement flat complexes. If you’d like to know where these take place and would like to join us please contact us.

Care home ministry

St Albans Anna Chaplaincy has a presence in most of our city’s care homes, o ering regular worship and pastoral visiting. If you would like to talk to Maggie and the team about a visit or what the chaplaincy can o er in your local care setting do get in touch.

To make contact with us email: mrsmaggiedodd@gmail.com or call: 07462 586773

or visit the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/

AnnaChaplaincyStAlbans

To watch a video about us by St Albans Diocese please scan this code on your smartphone or find our page at mrmc.org.uk

ST MICHAEL’S (CofE)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL SUMPTER YARD, AL1 1BY

The largest ‘church’ in St Albans. It hosts regular concerts and lunchtime organ recitals, has a modern refectory (Abbot’s Kitchen), regular exhibitions and displays and a gi shop. Entry is free (donations welcome).

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST ALBAN &

ST STEPHEN (RC)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

The Exhibition Area in the Cathedral is worth a visit and tells the story of Alban and the history of the Cathedral. If history and heritage is your kind of thing, there is a variety of Adult Learning courses and talks which explore faith, history and culture. Many are available online via Zoom, so you can join an event without leaving your own home – very useful in the winter months. To discover the latest events and courses, please visit the Cathedral’s website under ‘Learning’.

Weekday services

The Cathedral o ers a range of worship services throughout the week, with a midday Eucharist heldMonday-Thursday in the Shrine Chapel, and Evensong or Evening Prayer Monday-Saturday at 5pm in the Quire. There is also a Roman Catholic Mass on Fridays at midday and monthly weekday German Lutheran, Free Church and Orthodox services. Visit www.stalbanscathedral.org/ regular-services to find a full service and music list. You can also watch live-streamed services from the comfort of your own home.

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

The Cathedral has a thriving congregation and a group of Lay Pastoral Assistants who support older members of their community with phone calls, visits and sometimes Home Communion.

Abbey Lunch Clubs

The Abbot’s Kitchen hosts weekly small lunch club groups usually every Monday and alternate Tuesdays. The numbers are limited due to space but if you’d like to join them please contact the Cathedral on the details below and they will put you in contact with the Lunch Club Coordinator.

Tel: 01727 890210

Email: mail@stalbanscathedral.org

www.stalbanscathedral.org

ST MICHAEL’S (CofE)

ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH

Monthly Walking Group

ST MICHAEL’S STREET, AL3 4SL

CHRIST CHURCH (CofE)

This beautiful church sits on the edge of Verulamium Park, and o ers a warm welcome to all.

Weekday service

Wednesday

Holy Communion: 10.30am - followed by tea, co ee and biscuits, all welcome.

Tel: 01727 835037

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

ST STEPHEN’S

MARSHALSWICK BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

The St Michael’s walking group is open to all, usually happening on a Wednesday from May to October. Meeting at St Michael’s Parish Centre at 11am, the walkers cover about two miles, arriving for lunch at a local pub at around 12.30pm. A number of people join the group at lunchtime. All are welcome. Please email suecvaughan@btinternet.com to register your interest, or call 01727 811443.

ST MARY’S (CofE)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

Email: admin.stmichaels@btconnect.com | www.stmichaels-parishchurch.org.uk

ST PETER’S (CofE)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

STEPHEN’S (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

14-16 BEACONSFIELD ROAD, AL1 3RB

This thriving Roman Catholic church sits a stone’s throw from the city rail station.

Weekday Masses

Mon to Fri*: 10am Mon, Wed, Fri: 7pm *1st Friday of the month only.

ST BART’S (RC)

All masses are livestreamed: www.youtube. com/c/SsAlbanandStephenCatholicChurch

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

Tel: 01727 853585 |

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

Monday Coffee and Cake

Free tea, co ee and cakes are served a er 10am mass every Monday from 10.30 -11.30am. All welcome.

Parish Friends Group

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

The group organises Sunday tea parties, film shows and a Knit and Natter group (which meets every two weeks on Tuesdays), and arranges visitors and li s to Sunday Mass for elderly, lonely or housebound parishioners. Contact the Church O ice for further information.

Email: stalbans@rcdow.org.uk | www.albanstephen.org

(CofE)

CATHEDRAL (CofE)

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN ROAD (Methodist)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST PETER’S (CofE) (CofE)

SALVATION ARMY

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST PETER’S CHURCH

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist)

ST PETER’S STREET, AL1 3HG

Situated at the top of St Peter’s Street, this church hosts free recitals and regular hospitality*. Keep an eye on their website for one-o events or subscribe to their weekly emails: mail@stpeterschurch.uk.com

CHRIST CHURCH (CofE)

*Services return to normal from early May, when the church returns to its newly refurbished building.

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

Lunchtime music

ST BART’S (RC)

1pm on Wednesdays from 8th May, during term time. There is no charge but donations help the work of Rennie Grove Peace. The concerts last about 50 minutes then light refreshments are available in the Octagon.

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

Tea on Tuesday

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Every 4-6 weeks, from 2pm until 3.30pm, held in the Octagon. All are welcome to enjoy tea, sandwiches, scones and cakes and lively conversation. Dates are: 14th May, 11th June, 9th July, 10th September, 8th October, 12th November and 3rd December. No booking is necessary except for the lunch in July which must be booked and paid for in advance.

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

Weekday services

Every weekday Join us from home on Monday to Friday at 9am for Morning Prayer on Zoom (contact Parish O ice/see website for details).

MARSHALSWICK BAPTIST CHURCH (Baptist)

ST MARY’S (CofE)

Midweek Communion every Tuesdayat 11am in the Octagon, followed by co ee or tea.

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

Tel: 01727 855485 | Email: mail@stpeterschurch.uk.com | www.stpeterschurch.uk.com

ST MICHAEL’S (CofE)

ST PETER’S (CofE)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

SALVATION ARMY

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist)

DAGNALL STREET BAPTIST CHURCH

1 CROSS STREET, AL3 5EE

Situated near the city’s shopping centre, this church o ers an inviting place to stop.

The Cross Street Centre Café

This friendly space is open to everyone from Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm.

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

All food is reasonably priced and made to order. Scones, biscuits and yummy cakes

ST BART’S (RC)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

are baked daily on the premises. Jacket potatoes and toasties are a speciality and excellent soup (gluten free) is served during the colder months with di erent flavours each day. Fairtrade hot and cold drinks are available.

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

A Compassionate Café also runs every 2nd Thursday - see p21 for details.

Tel: 01727 846891 | www.dsbc.org.uk

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

ST BART’S (RC)

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE) (CofE)

ST STEPHEN’S CHURCH

WATLING STREET, AL1 2PT

ST PETER’S (CofE)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

Forming a parish with St Julian’s (info below), St Stephen’s is a welcoming church situated on the south side of St Albans. Both churches o er one-o events and seasonal activities so do check the website regularly or contact the Parish O ice if you’d like a weekly email sent to you detailing what’s on.

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

Weekday services

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

Tuesday Morning Prayer: 9.15am

Wednesday Holy Communion: 9.15am

Friday Zoom Morning Prayer: 9.15amcontact the Parish O ice for details.

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

Lunch Club

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

Tuesdays from midday. Delicious food and friendly atmosphere. Limited places so you must book in advance, transport is available for people who live locally. Please contact the Parish O ice for further information.

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Wednesday Coffee Morning

From 10am til 11am in the church, friendly drop-in co ee morning. Free.

St Stephen’s Community Shed

Every Friday (term time) 10.30am to 12.30pm in the main church hall.

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

A great place to meet people whilst cra ing or just having a cup of tea or co ee.

ST JULIAN’S CHURCH

ABBOTS AVENUE, AL1 2HY

St Julian’s is situated in the Cottonmill estate and is a friendly informal church community.

Weekday services

Thursday Morning Prayer: 9.15am

First Thursday in the month 12.15pm Communion

Contact details for both churches: Tel: 01727 862598

Cottonmill Crafters

This informal group meets on the third Thursday of the month, 10.30am-midday in the Community Café to share friendship and cra ing tips.

Community Café

Thursdays from 10.30am. Homemade cakes and freshly brewed tea and co ee, inexpensive prices and a warm welcome. Runs until midday.

Email: office@ststephenandstjulian.org | www.ststephenandstjulian.org

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ST LUKE’S CHURCH CELL BARNES LANE, AL1 5QJ

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

A modern lively church serving The Camp and area east of London Road.

Coffee Morning

Open to all, this weekly Tuesday co ee morning from 10-11.30am provides an opportunity to relax and catch up with others from the local community.

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

MARSHALSWICK BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

Friday Soup Café

Why not stay on a er Knit and Natter and enjoy lunch at St Luke’s? Friday Soup Café runs from 12noon-1.30pm every Friday (during term time only) and is open to all.

ST MARY’S (CofE)

Knit and Natter

Join this friendly group for a ‘Knit and Natter’ on a Friday morning, and enjoy hot drinks and conversation. From 10-11.30am. All welcome (with or without knitting!).

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

Tel: 01727 865399 | Email: office@saint-lukes.co.uk | www.saint-lukes.co.uk

ST PETER’S (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST PAUL’S CHURCH BLANDFORD ROAD, AL1 4JP

A thriving church for all ages on Sundays and throughout the week. O ers midweek groups across the parish for prayer, Bible study and support as well as regular Alpha courses. Monthly Communion services are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 10am. You are also welcome at the various activity and interest groups which include art, strolling, creation care, gardening and sewing. Please see the website or contact the o ice for full details.

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

Tel: 01727 846281

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Wednesday Drop-In Café

Freshly brewed co ee and homemade cake are the order of the day from 10.30-midday, every Wednesday. No booking required, everyone welcome, just call in.

Lunch Club

Usually meeting on the second Monday of each month, this friendly lunch club serves a delicious two-course home-cooked meal with lots of time to chat. Please contact the o ice to check dates and to book a place.

CHURCH

ST MARY’S

ST SAVIOUR’S CHURCH

ST PETER’S (CofE)

25 SANDPIT LANE, AL1 4DF

Not far from Bernards Heath, this thriving church hosts a wide range of activities, concerts and hospitality. Keep an eye on their website for their seasonal events.

ST SAVIOURS (CofE) DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

Men’s Group

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

An informal, easy-going group. Regular gatherings are usually centred on evening suppers in hostelries in St Albans. Mixed age range. Contact the Parish O ice to join them.

Senior Citizens’ Tea Club

Meets in St Saviour’s Church Hall on the third Friday of each month at 2pm with light refreshments followed by either a speaker or entertainment. New members are always welcome. Contact Tina for more info on 01727 864490.

Compassionate Café

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

Every 2nd Tuesday of the month, from 2pm - see p21 for details.

ST BART’S (RC)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

Women’s Group

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

This group meets monthly for a variety of events, including outings and social gettogethers, both during the daytime and the evening. Contact the Parish O ice to join them.

Weekday services

Tuesday Holy Communion at 10am, followed by refreshments.

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

Thursday Holy Communion at 8pm, followed by half an hour of prayer and reflection (Exposition and Benediction). Finish by 9pm.

Tel: 01727 830323 | Email: parish.stsaviours@gmail.com | www.ssaviours.org

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

Coming to the market on a Wednesday?

Why not pop in for lunch...

Anna Chaplaincy have teamed up with The Salvation Army for their CAMEO group which meets on the 4th Wednesday of the month. Do come and join us!

A light lunch of soup and a roll is served at 1pm (suggested £2 donation), followed at 1.30pm by a cra activity or talk by a guest speaker.

The programme for the next few months is as follows:

April 24th: Health and Wellbeing talk

May 22nd: Cra ing Workshop*

June 26th: Keeping safe with Herts Police

July 24th: Intergenerational cra s & games*

THE SALVATION ARMY

16-18 VICTORIA STREET, AL1 3JB

* a small fee may apply for cra activities

ST ALBANS METHODIST CHURCHES

MARSHALSWICK

BAPTIST FREE

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

St Albans Methodist Churches are based in the city centre and in Fleetville. Both churches o er a range of services and groups, and host an annual summer ‘Holiday at Home’ event - a four-day gathering with music, activities, delicious food, fun and friendship. This summer’s Holiday at Home takes place at Hatfield Road on 19th/20th August and Marlborough Road on 22nd/23rd August. Contact Maggie Dodd on 07462 586773 for details.

ST PETER’S (CofE)

ST

SALVATION ARMY

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST CHURCH

133B HATFIELD ROAD, AL1 4JX

CHURCH (Baptist)

Creativity in Fellowship

Warm Welcome Café

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

Serving the residents of Fleetville, this lively church hosts a regular café, monthly a ernoon weekday worship, and a wellloved community Day Care.

Pop in every Tuesday from 9.30am until 11.30am and escape the hustle and bustle of Hatfield Road. A friendly welcome, homemade cakes, and freshly brewed tea and co ee await you.

Wednesday Afternoon Service

Informal worship - first Wednesday of the month with favourite hymns, prayers and a talk. From 2.30pm lasting about 30 minutes. Followed by an optional cra activity and refreshments until 4pm. All welcome.

Tel: 01727 851834

Twice monthly on a Friday morning, this arts-based faith group gets together to share ideas and creativity. Free to attend, the group meets for an hour-and-a-half over a cuppa. Meetings run from 10.30am until midday. Contact Maggie Dodd on 07462 586773 to find out more.

Friday Day Care

Running for over 30 years, this wonderful community group welcomes older people from around Fleetville. From 10.30am until 3pm guests enjoy conversation, activities and lunch together. There is a limit on numbers but do get in touch if you would like to find out more.

www.hatfieldroaddaycare.co.uk

Email: admin@midhertsmethodists.org.uk | www.hatfieldroadmethodist.org

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

ST ALBANS METHODIST CHURCHES

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

ST PETER’S (CofE)

SALVATION ARMY

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

HATFIELD ROAD

CHRIST CHURCH (CofE)

METHODIST CHURCH

MARLBOROUGH ROAD, AL1 3XG

Situated in the heart of the city behind The Maltings, this welcoming church o ers monthly Thinking Lunches, hosts weekly co ee mornings and o ers a soup lunch once a month a er the morning service.

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

Chatterbox Café

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

MARSHALSWICK

BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

Pop in every Thursday from 10.30am until midday. A friendly place to chat and enjoy a freshly brewed tea or co ee.

Sunday Soup Lunch

ST MARY’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

Thinking Lunches

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

First Thursday in the monthfrom 12.30pm until 1.30pm (check website for details). Bring your own lunch along and listen to a thought-provoking talk by a di erent guest speaker every month.

ST PETER’S (CofE)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

First Sunday of the month at midday. Join us a er our morning service for a soup lunch. With a choice of homemade soups, bread, fruit and cheese. Open to all. No charge but donations are accepted.

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

Email: info@mrmc.org.uk

www.mrmc.org.uk

HATFIELD ROAD

SALVATION ARMY

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist)

THE SALVATION ARMY 16-18 VICTORIA STREET, AL1 3JB

City-centre hospitality can be found at The Salvation Army on Victoria Street.

Wednesday Coffee morning

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

Call in from 11am until 1pm for a cup of co ee and conversation in the new café area. Open to all, a welcome stop in the bustling city centre.

ST BART’S (RC)

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

Cameo group

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Meets every fourth Wednesday of the month. People gather in the café area at 1pm for a light lunch of soup and a roll (suggested £2 donation), followed at 1.30pm by a cra activity or talk by a guest speaker. Spring/Summer dates on p9.

Tel: 01727 855395

Email: st.albans@salvationarmy.org.uk www.salvationarmy.org.uk/st-albans

MICHAEL’S (CofE)

ALBAN & STEPHEN (RC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH

ASHLEY ROAD, AL1 5DA

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Tuesday Get Together

Part of the local community since 1939, this independent Christian church is based in the east of St Albans. A warm welcome awaits. Visit their website to find out more.

Meeting every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 2pm-4pm. A place for a chat, co ee and cake, table tennis, board games, puzzles, cra s and singing. Activities you can bring and share. Everyone is welcome.

Email: ashleychurchstalbans@live.co.uk | www.ashleychurch.org.uk

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

MARSHALSWICK

BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

ST MARY’S (CofE)

ST MARY’S, MARSHALSWICK

1 SHERWOOD AVENUE, AL4 9QA

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

Just opposite Marshalswick’s thriving shopping area sits St Mary’s church. O ering a lunch club, Memory Café and annual ‘Holiday at Home’ (this year running 5th8th August - see church website for details), there’s always a reason to drop in.

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

Thursday Communion Service & Lunch Club

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

Saturday Morning Coffee Shop

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Pop along if you are near the Quadrant and enjoy freshly brewed tea and co ee. From 10.30am until 12.30pm every Saturday.

Home Instead

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

On the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, St Mary’s o ers an optional Holy Communion service at midday, before their twice-monthly Lunch Club. If you would like to join Lunch Club please contact the Parish O ice or call Ruth on 07961 980158 or email: ruth@marshalswick.org. uk to check availability.

Tel: 01727 851544

Email: admin@marshalswick.org.uk

www.marshalswick.org.uk

St Albans – Memory Café. Set up to help people living with dementia, this popular group has successfully run for over 5 years. It creates the perfect opportunity for older people to socialise, have fun and meet new friends, whilst providing respite for family carers. Held every Wednesdayfrom 10.30-12pm in St Mary’s Church Hall and run by local care providers Home Instead. Please contact Fiona Harrall on 01727 895941 for further information.

CHRIST CHURCH

3 HIGH OAKS, AL3 6DJ

CHRIST CHURCH (CofE)

Monday Suppers

This church’s events for seniors focus on sharing faith through friendship, fellowship, food and fun. For more information do contact the church on the details below.

Pastimes Small Groups

First Tuesday of each month 2pm-3.30pm.

Bible study and prayer time for Christian believers, and for those curious about faith, finishing with tea, co ee and cake.

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

ST MICHAEL’S (CofE)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

Weekly from 3.30pm-7pm. A free meal, (donations welcome) - three courses of fresh food cooked on the premises, all welcome.

Tea and Talk

MARSHALSWICK

BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

ST MARY’S (CofE)

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

Alternate Thursdays from 2.30-4pm.

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

Enjoy a slice of cake and a cuppa in a relaxed atmosphere.

ST PETER’S (CofE)

Tel: 01727 859806

Email: enquiries@ccstalbans.org.uk

www.ccstalbans.org.uk

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

MARSHALSWICK

BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

ST MARY’S (CofE)

MARSHALSWICK BAPTIST FREE CHURCH

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

SHERWOOD AVENUE, AL4 9QL

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

This welcoming church is nestled in the heart of the community and close to the Quadrant shopping centre in Marshalswick.

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

Thursday afternoon gathering 1.30pm to 4.30pm - drop in anytime for tea and cakes and a chance to engage in an art group, knitting, board games or tech support, in partnership with St Albans’ charity Computer Friendly. Or just pop in for a chat!

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

Wednesday Table Tennis

Starting at 2pm, this group is suitable for all abilities or those who simply fancy ‘having a go’.

‘Jigsaw – a place to fit in’

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

Tuesday a ernoon 1.30pm to 4.30pm

A welcoming space for you to drop in, chat over a cuppa, maybe play a board game or help with a jigsaw.

This church has a thriving mixed social group for the ‘young at heart’ who go on trips, theatre visits and meals out, and raise money for charities. Please get in touch for further details.

Tel: 01727 857786

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Email: churchsecretary.mbfc@gmail.com |

www.mbfc.org.uk

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

(CofE)

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST ALBANS UNITED REFORMED CHURCH HOMEWOOD ROAD, AL1 4BH

ST MICHAEL’S (CofE)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST PETER’S (CofE)

DAGNALL ST (Baptist)

SALVATION ARMY

ST SAVIOURS (CofE)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

St Albans URC is a church that meets on two sites - Homewood and Greenwood. Homewood Road o ers a range of activities, including a walking group and sewing groupvisit their website to see the complete list. You will also find up-to-date information about Greenwood’s activities which plan to restart when their new hall complex is rebuilt over the coming months.

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

ST BARTHOLOMEW’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

47 VESTA AVENUE, AL1 2PE

A friendly Roman Catholic church community in south St Albans.

Weekday Masses

Monday: 12pm

Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat: 9am (except on certain Holy Days or in the event of funerals)

Tel: 01727 850066

Email: stalbanssouth@rcdow.org.uk

Web: parish.rcdow.org.uk/stalbanssouth

Wednesday Day Centre

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist)

A social and activity group for elderly people who meet on Wednesdays from 10am-2pm in the Back Hall. There is a limit on numbers but do get in touch if you would like to find out more.

Tel: 01727 899117

Email: secretary@homewoodurc.org www.stalbansurc.org

Monday Soup Lunch

Masses on Monday at midday are followed by a free soup and bread lunch in the hall - do pop along, all are welcome.

St Bart’s Circle of Friends

A warm welcome awaits at this informal group, which normally meets on the last Wednesday of the month from 2-4pm in the Parish Hall.

Contact Maureen Kelly on 01727 850066 if you’d like to attend. Li s may be available.

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ST LEONARD’S (CofE)

ST LEONARD’S, SANDRIDGE

CHURCH END, SANDRIDGE, AL4 9DL

St Leonard’s has sat at the heart of Sandridge village for over 900 years. Today the parish also covers about half of Jersey Farm too. The church holds seasonal fairs so do check their website for up-to-date information.

ST MARK’S (CofE)

ST MARK’S COLNEY HEATH

CHURCH LANE, COLNEY HEATH, AL4 0NH

St Mark’s is a loving, active charismatic evangelical church located in Colney Heath and o ers a variety of drop-in groups.

Community Café

A friendly drop-in cafe which meets in the church on the first Thursday of the month from 10am until midday. All ages welcome.

Craft Evening

Join this friendly group, which meets from 8pm-10pm on the first Tuesday of the month in the church hall. Open to all.

Summer Afternoon Teas

Every Sunday in August from 3-5pm.

Enjoy the beautiful setting of St Leonard’s Church with an a ernoon tea. Open to all, donations welcome.

www.sandridgechurch.org.uk

The Gathering

This regular informal service for older people combines worship with a tea, meeting in the church at 2pm on the third Tuesday of each month. No booking required. Transport is available for people who live locally, contact the Church O ice to find out more.

Tel: 01727 825175

Email: office@stmarkscolneyheath.co.uk

www.stmarkscolneyheath.co.uk

We hope this little booklet encourages you to visit some of the groups, events and services listed. Do remember to let the groups you attend know where you found out about them.

A chance to chat with friendly local people in Morrisons Café

a chance to chat everyone welcome

Monday mornings

9.30-11.30

Come and join us on Monday mornings for a chance to chat

Earlier this year St Albans Anna Chaplaincy started a new drop-in session at Morrisons supermarket on Hatfield Road in Fleetville.

Many of our local supermarkets are o ering fewer cashier tills and more selfservice till points, and this can mean some people lose the opportunity to connect with others when they are out and about. If you shop in the Fleetville area do consider popping in and joining us for a co ee or tea and a chat. The session has a rota of di erent local people, all happy to talk to others. You’ll be assured of a warm welcome and friendly conversation. We are grateful to Rev Peter Crumpler from St Paul’s for helping get this o the ground, and to Morrisons for o ering us this regular spot in their popular café.

We will be there every Monday morning from 9.30am until 11.30am, do stop by and say hello.

Would you like to be involved with Anna Chaplaincy?

There are a growing number of people in our communities and care homes who would value friendship and support. These past few years have been di icult for many - some people have lost confidence or mobility, or are living in care homes which have had restrictions on visitors and are now trying to re-establish church services and pastoral visiting.

St Albans Anna Chaplaincy spiritually supports older people in St Albans and we’re looking to put together a group of people (Anna Friends) who would like to support people in later life. This could be volunteering to chat and make tea at various clubs, supporting care home worship or visiting people in need of friendship and support. Does this sound like something you would like to do?

If so, please do get in touch with Maggie. Volunteering with vulnerable older people means you would require a DBS check (we can arrange that for you) and a safeguarding training session, but a willing and kind attitude is the most important thing. We very much look forward to hearing from you.

Keeping yourself well, safe and happy

There’s lots of help and advice available locally for older people. Here are some top tips on where to access advice, assistance and information.

General Help and Advice – Herts Help is Herts County Council’s free adviceline for queries on care, getting a social work assessment, managing at home, disability adaptations, support in a crisis and much more. Call 0300 123 4044.

Age UK’s free advice and information phoneline can provide advice on your rights, entitlements, access to other benefits, information on community care and health services, payments for care and support at home or residential care, plus many more issues. If you need help with daily living tasks, you may be entitled to Attendance Allowance. Call 0300 345 3446.

If you are on a low income ask Citizens Advice St Albans on 01727 811118 for a free income check. You may be entitled to Pension Credit which will increase your

weekly income as well as ensuring you get help with other costs like Council Tax, rent, and optician and dental bills.

If you can’t easily a ord an item like a kitchen appliance or recliner chair or to replace a worn carpet contact St Albans Old People’s Trust for an application form. The Trust’s wide range of free support and services also includes mobility aids and personal items. Call them on 01727 260701.

If you are struggling with energy bills, contact Citizens Advice on 01727 811118 to get an appointment with their Energy Advice Team. It could be that your home needs to be made more energy e icientcontact Better Housing Better Health on 0800 107 0044 for advice and information about free energy-saving measures.

If you need a trusted handyperson or gardener contact Age UK Handyperson team on 07951 105370. The service costs £25 an hour.

If you want to help your community contact Communities 1st who can tell you about local volunteering opportunities including becoming a Trustee and a volunteer driver for one of the community car schemes. Call 01727 649950 to find out more.

If you want to ensure you are safe at home ask the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service for a free Safe and Well Visit. They can check your smoke alarms and, if necessary, fit a new one for free and help you work out an escape plan. Call them on 0300 123 4046.

If you are worried about starting to feel down, contact your GP for an appointment. You may also like to contact the Counselling Foundation on 0300 303 6690 for low-cost talking therapies. Or

Mind In Mid Herts who have a range of free and low-cost therapies, living well courses, support groups and activities designed to help. Call them on 03303 208100.

If you’re not getting out much, this brochure contains lots of ideas for events you can pop along to, where you’ll receive a warm welcome and the chance to make new friends. Why not try visiting a group near where you live?

If cooking is getting too much for you, Herts Independent Living Service provides a Meals-On-Wheels service, as well as Active Ageing free in-home exercise classes, a nutrition service and many more services. Contact them on 0300 2000 103.

If you feel you’d like help to get started (or improve) with computers, tablets or smartphones, contact Computer Friendly on 01727 617359 for free advice and low-cost courses.

If you are starting to get unsteady on your feet, see your GP. You may also want to go to an exercise class designed to prevent falls e.g. Nicki’s Strength and Balance Classes at the Jubilee Centre and various locations around St Albans. Contact her on 07984 928855.

Make sure you are getting all the income you are entitled to

Are you missing out on money you are entitled to? Two of the main benefits are Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, both of which have dedicated Government helplines.

Pension Credit

Pension Credit is extra money that you can claim to top up your pension income, by an average of £67 a week. 1,500 people of pensionable age living in St Albans District are missing out on a total of £4 million each year. Although it is called ‘credit’ you do not need to repay it, but you do have to apply for it.

If you get Pension Credit you may also be entitled to:

• Council Tax reduction, potentially worth £1,000s a year

• Housing Benefit - rent paid in part or full rent paid, potentially worth £1,000s a year

• Free NHS dental treatment

• Vouchers towards the cost of glasses

• Warm Home Discount of £150 a year

• Carer Premium - extra money for carers

• Free TV licence - for people over 75

• If you are over 75 and are turned down for Pension Credit because your income is too high by up to £20 a week, St Albans Old People’s Trust will pay for your TV licence for a year.

To apply call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234, visit their website, or ask a money advice service for help to apply.

To apply for Attendance Allowance call the Government Attendance helpline on 0800 731 0122, visit their website, or ask a money advice service for help to apply.

Attendance Allowance

This is extra money you can claim if you’re over State Pension age and have a long-term disability or health condition, for example if you need help with personal support or supervision to keep you safe. It is not means-tested, so you can claim it whatever your income or savings. You have to apply for it.

You may be eligible for £72.65 a week if you need help either in the day or at night, or £108.55 a week if you need help both during the day and the night.

Compassionate Café

A safe, informal space in your local community for anyone affected by bereavement or loss. Enjoy a friendly chat over a cuppa with others who understand. All welcome with no need to book.

Well Bean

Cafe

Harpenden Trust Halls, Harpenden, AL5 1PU.

1st & 3rd Tuesday, 2-3:30pm

Jersey Farm

Café

Jersey Farm Community Centre, AL4 9RG

2nd Friday,

2.30-4pm

Leeanna’s Wish Community Café

Cottonmill Community Centre, Cottonmill Lane, AL1 2EF

Last Tuesday, 10.30-12:30pm

St Saviours Church Hall

Sandpit Lane, AL1 4DF

2nd Tuesday, 2-3.30pm

Cross Street

Café

Cross Street Centre, 1 Cross St, AL3 5EE

2nd Thursday, 10-11:30am

Café on the Corner

39 Catherine Street, AL3 5BJ

3rd Saturday, 10.30am -12

ST MICHAEL’S (CofE)

CHRIST CHURCH (CofE)

PORTERS WOOD

NEW GREENS BATCHWOOD TOWNSEND BERNARDS HEATH

ST SAVIOUR’S (CofE)

ST PETER’S (CofE)

DAGNALL STREET (Baptist)

ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL (CofE)

MARLBOROUGH ROAD (Methodist) SALVATION ARMY

ST ALBAN & ST STEPHEN (RC)

1 MILE ST LEONARD’S SANDRIDGE (CofE)

MARHSALSWICK

BAPTIST FREE CHURCH (Baptist)

ST MARY’S (CofE)

MARSHALSWICK

HOMEWOOD ROAD (URC)

HATFIELD ROAD (Methodist)

ST PAUL’S (CofE)

ST STEPHENS THE CAMP FLEETVILLE

ST STEPHEN’S (CofE)

ST BART’S (RC)

COTTONMILL

ST JULIAN’S (CofE)

SOPWELL ST JULIANS

ST LUKE’S (CofE)

ASHLEY CHURCH (Free)

2 MILES ST MARK’S COLNEY HEATH (CofE)

Home Communion or worship services at your sheltered housing block or flat complex.

If you’re unable to make it to church due to mobility issues it may be possible for someone to come to you and o er you Home Communion. Do contact Maggie and she will try and put you in contact with someone who can help.

If you live in a sheltered housing block and think you might like to host a monthly church service in your lounge or common room please get in touch and we’ll do our best to organise this for you.

Maggie Dodd, St Albans Anna Chaplaincy Lead

Email: mrsmaggiedodd@gmail.com or call: 07462

586773