Every person. Every background.
Fully welcome in Christ.

inclusion

Our Commitment

At St Mary’s we believe every person is made in the image of God. We’re committed to full inclusion in worship, belonging, ministry and leadership. That means no one should have to ask if they’ll fit in - because the answer is yes.

We’re members of Inclusive Church and hold to the Inclusive Church statement (see below).

We’re also still learning. If we miss something, please tell us and we’ll do our best to put it right.

  • “We believe in inclusive church – a church which celebrates and affirms every person and does not discriminate.

    We will continue to challenge the church where it continues to discriminate against people on grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality.

    We believe in a Church which welcomes and serves all people in the name of Jesus Christ; which is scripturally faithful; which seeks to proclaim the Gospel afresh for each generation; and which, in the power of the Holy Spirit, allows all people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Jesus Christ.”

Belonging

All ages and backgrounds. LGBTQ+ people and families. Single, married, divorced, remarried. Disabled and non-disabled. Neurodivergent and neurotypical. Long‑time churchgoers and the just‑curious.

Participation

Welcome to read, pray, serve, lead, and receive Holy Communion.

Safeguarding

We’re committed to the safety of children, young people and adults. We follow Church of England safeguarding policies. Our Parish Safeguarding Officer is Carol Bader (safeguarding@stmaryshitcham.org.uk). If anyone is at immediate risk, call 999. Find out more here.

inclusion at st mary’s

Accessibility & support

    • Step‑free access to the main church.

    • Ramp access to the Parish Room.

    • Gender‑neutral toilet.

    • Accessible seating available - ask the person on the door if you’d like space for a wheelchair, walking aid or buggy.

    • Hearing loop available in the main church.

    • Screen and projector used during the 9am service.

    • Large‑print orders of service at the 11am service.

  • Children and young people belong at the heart of our worship. There’s space for wriggles, and no one is too noisy to be welcome.

Need an adjustment? Drop us a message here and we’ll prepare.