Oldbury on Severn

The Oldbury-on-Severn Methodist Chapel was built in 1835, although the village Methodists are recorded as meeting in a cottage from 1810. The building is strategically placed in the centre of the village and offers ideal opportunities for use. The complete renovation and modernisation of the Chapel has recently been accomplished and offers an attractive and inviting building for both worship and community activities. The premises are used almost daily by groups linked directly or indirectly with church members for local needs.

Over the years the Chapel has been a centre of Christian activity including Sunday Schools, Holiday Clubs, Girls Life Brigade and many varied gatherings for adults. At present, because of the changing nature of village life, the ministry of the church is mainly concerned with older members. A monthly Lunch Club is preceded by Holy Communion. Seeing the need for a community meeting point (now the village has no shop) we have a permanent Fair Trade stall.

Sunday worship is generally in the evening, but once a month we have morning worship instead, which is especially arranged for All Age Worship. We seek to support the local Primary School.

Friendship Circle meets each month on an ecumenical basis. There is an increasing coming together of the Christian community in the village. At Harvest time and Christmas the Chapel and Parish Church share in each others services and in the spring we come together for a series of informal Lenten meetings in the chapel. On Good Friday there is a "Procession" through the village ending in a combined service. We have an annual open air "Songs of Praise" each June in the centre of the village, together with other Christians and there are other events happening now in a new spirit of faith and renewal. This is reflected in an increased attendance at services.

There is a growing Ecumenical working together through the now established "Oldbury Churches Together" link where future events are planned in regular meetings. Part of this is a study group that meets during the autumn and spring terms and involves the Parish Church of St. Arilda, the Roman Catholic Community, the Chapel and other Christians living in the area.

We continue to work closely with local Christians, being very conscious of our calling to work with the Lord where He places us.