The Church is a Field Hospital for Sinners.
Our parish isn’t just about services — it’s about community, friendship, and shared joy. From bell ringing to music, from families in the Mothers’ Union to the Scouts, there’s a place here for you. Whether you want to learn a new skill, meet people, or simply join in, our groups are open and welcoming to all.
Bell Ringers
Bell ringing is both a joyful tradition and a great workout for the body and mind! It’s a fun, team-based activity suitable for anyone from about age 9 to 99 — and beyond. There’s a strong social side too, with plenty of laughs and encouragement along the way.
Practice
At St Mary’s we have 6 bells and St Matthew’s has 5. We practise on Thursdays: 19:00–19:30 for beginners and improvers (when needed), 19:30–20:30 for the main session. We also ring before Sunday services at St Matthew’s (09:00–09:30) and at weddings.
Learning to Ring
Free tuition is offered — often in an intensive one-to-one session or short course. Most people learn the basics in 10–20 hours, but everyone progresses at their own pace. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Who Can Join?
You’ll need to be around 9 or 10 years old, but most young learners start around 12–14. There’s no upper age limit — many ringers are happily ringing in their nineties! It’s fantastic for keeping your mind sharp and your body active.
How Long Will It Take?
With regular practice, many learners can ring at “service standard” within a few months. Most people master the basics within 6–12 months, but it all depends on your time and enthusiasm!
St Matthew’s Choir
Music lifts our worship and our hearts — and our choir is at the very heart of that. We’re a friendly, mixed SATB choir of around 16 singers. If you enjoy singing, or just want to give it a try, we’d love to welcome you.
We sing at the 09:30 Mass every Sunday (except August), and at Choral Evensong on the 2nd Sunday of the month. We also perform special music at festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
Rehearsals
Choir Practice takes place every Friday at 20:00 — come along and see what we do!
Our Motto
We’re affiliated with the Royal School of Church Music, whose motto from 1 Corinthians 14:15 inspires us: “I will sing with the spirit and with the understanding.”
Mothers’ Union
The Mothers’ Union is about supporting families, building friendships, and strengthening faith. Our branch, formed in 1959, is an open, welcoming group — and you don’t need to be a mother to join!
When We Meet
We gather on the first Thursday of every month at 14:00 for prayer, Bible reflection, a speaker, and a friendly cup of tea. Every second Thursday, we share in a Corporate Mass at 10:00 followed by coffee in church.
What We Do
We host events like a summer garden party and a Christmas lunch, as well as supporting local and diocesan projects. New faces are always warmly welcomed!
Learn more about the worldwide Mothers’ Union at themothersunion.org.
3rd Ashford (St Matthew’s) Scout Group
Our Scout Group began in 1959 and has been giving young people adventure, skills, and friendship ever since. We believe in making Scouting fun, inclusive, and family-friendly.
What We Offer
We have leaders trained in camping, kayaking, archery, and fencing. We love to keep our programme adventurous and creative, with regular outdoor activities and group challenges.
When We Meet
- Beavers: Monday 18:00 – 19:00
- Cubs: Tuesday 18:30 – 20:30
- Scouts: Wednesday 19:30 – 20:45
Visit www.3rdashfordscoutgroup.org.uk to learn more and get involved.
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Registered Charity (England & Wales)
no. 1203323
The Church is a Field Hospital for Sinners.
We emphasise sacramental worship (the Mass or Holy Eucharist) celebrated in a traditional Anglo‑Catholic style,
with strong orthodox teaching and preaching, supportive pastoral care,
a caring parish family, and responsibility to our community and the greater world.
Address
The Parish Office,
99 Church Road,
Ashford, TW15 2NY
Phone
+44 1784 259093
Email
office@smam.org.uk
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