Easter Celebrations and Services in Rochdale Churches
This Easter weekend, churches across Rochdale are preparing a variety of services and events to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ. From Holy Communion to Bible studies and concerts, there are numerous opportunities for worship and community engagement.
St Luke's Church, Deeplish
On Easter Sunday, April 5, St Luke's Church in Deeplish will hold a service of Holy Communion at 10am, officiated by Rev Pamela Parr. Following the service, attendees can enjoy tea or coffee and a chance to chat in a friendly atmosphere. Additionally, on Wednesday, April 8, the church offers a Bible Study session at 10am, open to anyone interested in learning about the Bible in an informal setting. This will be followed by a Morning Praise service at 11am, also led by Revd Pamela Parr. The congregation welcomes both regular members and newcomers to join their caring community.
St Mary's, Balderstone
St Mary's in Balderstone invites the community to reflect on the true meaning of Easter, emphasizing hope and renewal beyond traditional symbols like eggs and rabbits. On Easter Sunday, April 5, at 10.30am, the church will host an Easter All-Age Communion Service, a fun and family-friendly gathering celebrating God's goodness. The guest preacher, Rev Daniel Mullaney, recently appointed as Head of Clergy Development by the Diocese of Manchester, will explore the hope Jesus provides through his death and resurrection, focusing on Luke 24:1–12. Tasty Easter snacks will be served alongside usual refreshments. All are welcome, whether regular churchgoers or first-time visitors. Note that evening prayer and SMurFs (stay and play) activities are on break this week, resuming on April 21 and 22, respectively. The church also thanks its day school for entries in a recent Easter art competition, with winners celebrated last weekend.
St Chad's and St Mary in the Baum
On Easter Day, April 5, St Chad's and St Mary in the Baum will hold services to celebrate the resurrection. At 9.15am, The Eucharist with hymns takes place at St Mary's, while at 11.15am, Choral Eucharist with hymns, psalm 114, and anthems such as "This Joyful Eastertide" and "Awake Thou Wintry Earth" will be held at St Chad's. Both services will be officiated by Rev Duke O'Baka-Torto. The following week, on Wednesday, April 8, from 12.30pm to 1.30pm at St Mary's, the Toad Lane Lunchtime Concert features Harmony Choir conducted by Freda Farnworth, with admission priced at £6. On Saturday, April 11, at noon at St Chad's, the Midday Concert presents baritone Gabriel Rhodes performing Leider and Art Song music, with admission of £6 including light refreshments from 11.30am. On Sunday, April 12, the Second Sunday of Easter, services include The Eucharist at St Mary's at 9.15am and Choral Matins at St Chad's at 11.15am, both led by Rev Pamela Parr. Children's activities are available during Sunday morning services, and refreshments are provided afterward.
St Andrews, Dearnley
St Andrews in Dearnley recently celebrated Palm Sunday on March 29 with a service featuring donkeys, and readings from Matthew, Isaiah, and Philippians. This Holy Week, the church held a midweek Eucharist and Maundy Thursday service with a light supper on April 2, followed by Good Friday events including a family service, hour of silence, and a service from noon to 3pm. On Easter Sunday, an 8pm vigil is scheduled. Regular activities include morning prayer on Wednesdays at 9.30am and a said midweek Eucharist on Thursdays at 10.30am, with light refreshments available. The church is also organizing community projects, such as making poppies for a November display and collecting donations for the Church of St Mary Magdalene in Omboloka. Holy Communion classes for children have concluded, and the Electoral Roll is open until April 13. Additionally, the church is seeking a Lay Reader, with training available for all ages, including those over 70. Upcoming events include a Mothers' Union meeting on April 6 and a retirement service for Councillor Ashley Dearnley on April 19.
For more information on these events, visit the respective church websites or contact them via email or social media. Submissions for news inclusion can be sent to info@inyouarea.co.uk by 4pm each Wednesday.
