St. Mary the Virgin, Hordley

Hordley, at the north end of the benefice, is a large, sparsely populated, rural parish lying 3-6 miles from Ellesmere and 5 - 8 miles from Oswestry, with a population of approximately 220. The proximity of the parish to Ellesmere (within Shropshire's beautiful Lakelands district) means that it is closely linked to this small market town and all the amenities it provides. Apart from the village hall, the church is the only meeting place within the parish and so serves as a centre for the community. 

St Mary’s church is well supported by an active congregation; we are well known locally for the quality and variety of our fund-raising activities. We put on at least two major social events each year which attract some people who rarely worship with us; thus extending 'church' beyond the gate of the churchyard and out into the community. 

The single cell Norman church is Grade II* listed and dates back to at least 1160. Recent information suggests that it may be as early as 1109. Using the more conservative date we were joined in July 2010 by Bishop Mark Rylands at a service and garden party in celebration of 850 years of continuous worship. 

Our regular service pattern consists of a service of the word in contemporary language on the second Sunday of each month and a communion service in more traditional language on the fourth Sunday. One new departure recently explored consisted of a service of readings and hymns, similar to a carol service, developing the Easter story. This was held on the Sunday after Easter and was well received. The burial ground, across the road from the church, is still open and the PCC has recently instigated the making of a garden of remembrance for the burial of cremated remains. We have installed of a seat for the use of bereaved families who come to remember their departed loved ones. The churchyard is mown by a contractor and voluntary working parties are well supported.

Every year since 2001 St Mary’s has supported the Shropshire Historic Churches Trust by the provision of sponsored cyclists for the Ride and Stride in September. Members of the congregation are involved in cross-benefice mission activities. These include the organization of the food bank, the provision of community lunches in All Saints’, and involvement in the benefice pastoral care group. These provide valuable support to parishioners in need during times of bereavement, illness or other crises.

Traditional Worship (Book of Common Prayer)
2nd and 4th Sundays: 9.15 am