This page includes various news items from the Benefice. Just click on any title bar to view the news item and download any associated document and, if there is an image, to click on it to see a larger version. Also please use the links below to select other news types including Pew News, Magazines and the Rectory Letters.
Electoral Roll for Milborne Port
The Electoral Roll for Milborne Port with Goathill is now closed. There are a total of 110 on the Roll and a list of names is available on the noticeboard in St John's Church, Milborne Port.
Since last year the parish of Goathill has been merged with Milborne Port, resulting in additional names being added.
News from Charlton Horethorne and Stowell
Charlton Horethorne and Stowell Electoral Roll
The Electoral Roll is open for revision until 29th March. This year, those already on the Roll do not need to re-apply, but anyone not currently on the Roll and who wishes to apply will need to complete and submit the application by 29th March at latest.
To apply online, please go to https://www.milborneportchurches.org.uk/electroll, select Charlton Horethorne with Stowell and complete the form including your name and address. Please note that, after clicking on Continue you will need to check the form and, if it is correct, click on Continue again to complete the application.
Alternatively, application forms (paper or digital) can be obtained from Charlie Beney (01963 220550 or charlesbeney132@btinternet.com and will need to be returned to Charlie by the deadline of 29th March.
ADVANCE NOTICES
APCM is on Sunday 19th April, after the 6pm Evensong.
Music for Pleasure - our popular concert for all will be held on Saturday 9th May. Further information next month.
HOMELESS CHARITY
Unwanted clothes, blankets etc. are still being collected, until the end of March. Please leave them inside the church in black bags.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
PCC - if anyone is interested in being a member of the PCC, please contact Amanda Hughes in the first instance. Members will be voted in at the APCM on 19th April, so applications need to be before that!
SYNOD REPRESENTATIVE - we have two vacancies for Synod Rep. This is not onerous - just four meetings a year, with feedback to be provided to the PCC. The only requirement is that the applicant is on the Electoral Roll. If anyone is interested, please contact Amanda Hughes before the APCM date (19th April).
FLOWER AND CLEANING ROTAS - if anyone is willing to help with cleaning or providing flowers for the church, on a rota basis (the more volunteers the less often any individual needs to do it!), please contact Christine Brown for cleaning, or Jenny Hunt for flowers (or Amanda Hughes, who will liaise with Christine and Jenny). All cleaning equipment is provided. For the flowers, the volunteer provides and arranges the flowers, but a limited amount may be reimbursed against receipts. Further information available on request.
Amanda Hughes contact details: amanda.cracknell@hotmail.com or 07768 874818
St John's Repair Appeal
Help us preserve our village church
St John the Evangelist has been at the heart of our village for more than a thousand years. Each generation has left its contribution to our lovely and historic building: much of the church is Norman or Victorian, our tower belfry was added in the fifteenth century, and the statues at the East end were added in the 1970s. St John’s is a Grade I listed church, which carries with it a heavy responsibility for its upkeep.
What needs to be done
- Repairs to our leaking roofs. Water damage is the most urgent issue the church is facing.
- Repairs to, and conservation of, the interior and exterior stonework and mortar of the building.
- Repairs to and conservation of the windows, including the glass, and the metal frames.
Where does the church get its money?
We receive no funding from government or church bodies to keep our precious historic building in
good shape. Its upkeep relies on the generosity of parishioners, local residents, and our loyal supporters.
What help is needed?
It costs £226 per day to keep this Historic Grade I listed church open. The PCC is faced with a daunting task to raise money for everything that needs to be done on top of this, which is likely to be in the region of £175,000.
But I don’t go to church
St John’s is not only a place of worship. It is there for community events such as the Spirit of Milborne Port Christmas Lights Switch On, for christenings, weddings, funerals, and as a place of support and celebration.
Making a donation
The easiest way to make a donation is online at lovegiving.co.uk/stjohntheevangelist
Website 10th Anniversary
The 22nd February 2026 is the 10th anniversary of the creation of the Milborne Benefice website. Since that day the website has developed and grown, just as, in 2025, the benefice grew with the addition of 3 more churches. The website is now at the point where a single person cannot maintain and update it and decide on its content. To continue much beyond 10 years more people are needed to carry out these tasks, most of which are not onerous.
Milborne Port with Goathill Electoral Roll
The Electoral Roll for Milborne Port with Goathill will need to be revised, starting on 13th February and ending on 27th February. This year those already on the Roll do not need to re-apply, but those not on the Roll and who wish to apply can do so.
To apply online please go to the Electoral Roll Application, select Milborne Port with Goathill and complete the form including your name and address. Please note that, after clicking on Continue you will need to check the form and if it is correct click on Continue again to complete the application.
Alternatively, there will be application forms in the three churches for those without access to the internet.
Graham Sharpless, Electoral Roll Officer sharpless@btinternet.com
Christian Aid Lent Lunches
Save the dates!
Christian Aid Lent Lunches will take place on five Fridays in Lent, namely February 27th, March 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th.
The venue most weeks will be Church House, Bathwell Lane. Details to be confirmed soon.
Please note new later time: 12.45 for 1pm.
Clare Silk 07905 912356 and Anne Salkeld 07841 434129
St John's Roof Repairs
The church of St John’s has stood at the heart of our community in Milborne Port for generations, not only as a place of worship but as a gathering place for community events, family celebrations, and as a place of support during difficult times. More than just wood, stone, mortar and glass, the church is a symbol of our shared history, values, and traditions. However, leaking roofs are putting our historic building at risk.
A leaky roof is not just a minor inconvenience, as the presence of strategically placed buckets testifies. Water damage can quickly spread and lead to wet and dry rot, mould, and structural weakening: eventually the safety of the building will be compromised. We need to deal with the leaks now, before repairs become even more costly.
Repairing a church roof is a significant financial undertaking. The costs include not only materials and labour, but also supervision to ensure that repairs are carried out in a way that respects the building’s historic character. Our church does not receive funding from external sources. Neither the Church of England, nor the Diocese of Bath & Wells provides financial support to keep our precious historic building in good shape. Its upkeep relies on the generosity of the congregation and parishioners, local residents, and supporters.
The Parochial Church Council now faces the immediate challenge of footing a repair bill of around £100,000. Some grants can be sourced, but we will need to find other ways of fundraising to ensure that our church building remains a safe, welcoming space for everyone. There are ongoing repairs to exterior and interior stonework and the windows will also require repair in the near future: it all comes at a cost.
Supporting a repair project such as this is not just about fixing a building; it is about investing in our community. The church provides space for family, community and charity events. Its doors are open to all, offering comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
Please join us in our fundraising efforts, whether through donations; volunteering to organize, support or hold a fund-raising event; or by helping to spread the word. Together, we can meet this challenge and secure our village church’s future for generations to come.
If you would like to help in any way, either practically or financially, then please let us know. If you’d like to help us get the ball rolling now, you can make a donation online by using the the web link below:
Christmas joy for all people - by Bishop Michael
We fear that we live in a world of increasing polarisation. Conflicts between and within nations play their part. The amplification of division and hostility by social media algorithms doesn’t help. Culture wars exacerbate matters further. Sometimes it feels like common ground is disappearing from underneath our feet like a sandbar being overwhelmed by the tide.
In such a climate, it’s good to return to the message that heralded the arrival of Jesus. ‘I bring you tidings of great joy which shall be for all people’ says that angel who announces the saviour’s birth (Luke 2:10). Jesus’ story quickly includes all types and sorts of humanity. From local shepherds to exotic visitors from afar. I wonder what the conversation was like as they all crammed into the stable to see the newborn child?
Jesus’s story quickly shows that not only is he for all people but that he needs all people. His family must have needed assistance when they fled as refugees to Egypt. Jesus must have needed help when his parents left him behind on a family outing to Jerusalem aged twelve. Jesus was constantly calling on and engaging with others as he went about his teaching and ministry.
What might counter the polarisation of our day? Amongst our greatest resource is to seek out the emotion that accompanied the news of the saviour’s birth – joy. When we encounter joy – from that cup winning goal to the marriage of much loved friends – such moments are never the time for division and enmity. We’re all far too busy shouting and hugging each other! The invitation of Christmas is to experience such joy afresh. Often, we see joy most obviously in children’s experience of the season. Might we seek it for ourselves too? For joy breaks down divisions, overcomes barriers, reminds us that we are one.
‘I bring you tidings of great joy which shall be for all people’ says the angel. A very merry and joyful Christmas to you all.
Michael Beasley Bishop of Bath and Wells
Bethlehem Baubles
Support your Church AND help families in Palestine
The Baubles are absolutely beautiful (there's a sample in the office now). They are directly helping some of the most tragic situations in Palestine. They are £20 each. I have bought at least one every year and recommend them for godchildren/grandchildren etc.
With blessings, Rev Rona
Partnering with Churches
We warmly invite churches of all denominations to support us by offering Bethlehem Baubles and Peace Lights to their congregations at Christmas. Each purchase made with your church’s unique code not only gives buyers a discount but also generates a donation directly back to your church. It’s a simple way to bless both your local community and families in Palestine.
In recent years, tourism in Palestine has almost disappeared, leaving artisans more anxious than ever about how to earn a living. Our decorations provide meaningful work and, at the same time, make beautiful, authentic Christmas gifts with a story worth sharing.
Every bauble comes in its own protective box, along with a leaflet that tells the story of our project. They’re ready to be sent as gifts around the world—no extra packaging needed.
How It Works for Churches
Each participating church will receive 50 flyers and a sample Bethlehem Bauble box. On every flyer, there’s a unique church code. When buyers enter this code at checkout on our website, they’ll receive a small discount—and £3.50 from every purchase will be donated directly to your church.
The baubles are shipped straight from our warehouse to the buyer, so it’s all very simple. All your church needs to do is share the flyers with your congregation.
We’d love for your parish to take part in this meaningful project. Every bauble sold provides vital support for families in Bethlehem, who are living through such difficult times. Together, we can bring hope and light from the very place where the Christmas story began
For further information please contact: alison@bethlehembaubles.com
Milborne Port Calendars for 2026
The Milborne Port Calendars for 2026 will be available at the Christmas Lights Switch On (Friday 28th November) and in Church on Sundays. If you wish to purchase one or more, the price is £5.00 [plus 25p if you would like to have a posting envelope as well]. We hope to have them available at other venues too or email the magazine editor.
(The cover has an amazing picture of a frog emerging from one of the water tanks up at the allotments after the extremely hot summer we have had – so happy it survived. The picture was taken by Terry Mitchell.)
Learn the Art of Church Bell Ringing
Are you looking for a unique hobby that combines tradition, teamwork, and a touch of musicality? If so, I invite you to join us at St John’s Church and learn how to ring church bells. Bell ringing is an ancient art that has been a part of British and Irish culture for centuries, marking celebrations, calling communities together, and creating a distinctive soundscape across towns and villages.
Church bell ringing involves more than simply pulling a rope; it is a fascinating blend of rhythm, technique, and coordination. Whether you have a musical background or are simply keen to try something new, bell ringing welcomes people of all ages and abilities. It’s a wonderful way to be part of your community and to keep a cherished tradition alive.
Why Should You Get Involved?
- Meet New People: Bell ringing is a social activity, providing a friendly environment where you can make new friends – often for life.
- Learn a Skill: Our experienced ringers will teach you everything you need to know, from the basics to advanced ringing methods.
- Stay Active: Bell ringing is surprisingly good exercise, keeping both body and mind engaged.
- Be Part of Something Special: You’ll help keep an important tradition alive and play a key role in community celebrations and services.
No prior experience is required. We hold regular practice sessions each Wednesday evening, and our friendly team will guide you every step of the way. All you need is enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
If you’re interested or would like to find out more, please contact me on 01963 250660 or simply come along to one of our practice nights – Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Whether you want to try it for fun or are keen to become a regular ringer, we’d love to welcome you. Church bell ringing has been a proud tradition in Milborne Port for generations. Join us in preserving this beautiful art form and experience the joy of ringing out across our village.
Susan Wales Tower Captain
Next Bishop of Taunton
Bishop Michael has announced the appointment of the new Bishop of Taunton.
Dear colleagues,
I am delighted to share the news that this morning (22 October 2025), Downing Street has announced that Fiona Gibson will be the next Bishop of Taunton.
Fiona has done an outstanding job as the Archdeacon of Ludlow and has a huge amount of expertise that will help us as we seek to grow our church and our increase our work within our communities across Somerset. Her rural experience and educational background, in particular, will be a wonderful gift to us.
Fiona is spending today meeting people from across our diocese. She will begin her day in Wiveliscombe, meeting clergy, church volunteers and members of the rural community at St Andrew’s Church, before heading to Taunton. There she will enjoy a tour of Pyrland’s Church of England Secondary School and a visit to the Without Borders Cafe, which employs refugees and offers work experience to asylum seekers, and is run by the charity CHARIS Refugees in Taunton.
From there she will make her way to Glastonbury to meet with clergy and volunteers at St John’s and St Benedict’s before joining in with the school assembly at St Benedict’s Junior School, Glastonbury. She will then return to Wells to meet staff at the diocesan offices before attending Evening Prayer at Wells Cathedral.
Please join me in praying for Fiona and her family as she prepares to take on this role next year.
Bishop Michael
Charity and Mission October 2025
During October 2025 St John's will be supporting Dorset Youth for Christ.
Based in Blandford Forum their mission is to help young people to explore a personal relationship with Jesus and to help them gain confidence and self-worth and reach their full potential.
Paid opportunities to support the church in part-time roles
Would you like to top up your income with a part-time role in the village?
St John's Church is looking for a Verger (person to get the church ready for services mostly on a Sunday and Wednesday, including keeping it clean and locking / unlocking the church 6 days a week). The role is 12h per week, paid at the national living wage (£12.21 per hour).
This role could be split between two people, one taking on cleaning duties, the other the preparation for church services.
If you would be interested in any aspect of this opportunity, please contact Reverend Rona on 01963 845278, revrona@gmail.com.
St John's Church Summer Draw and Fete
We would like to acknowledge and thank the generous business supporters who donated prizes for the Summer Draw in July. In addition to this list, we also wish to thank the kind individuals who donated a wide selection of great prizes which enabled the Draw to realize a large amount towards the Fete’s success. We raised well over £2,000.
- Lord Charles Allen
- Bristol Road Garage
- Wayne Pullen
- Martyn Else
We would also like to thank members of “One for the Road” for the live music.
St John’s Church Events Committee