THE PARISH CHURCH
There has been a church on this site since the 11th century, although nothing of the original building is now visible.
It is thought that this church served an area covering not only Winfrith Newburgh, but also East and West Lulworth, Coombe Keynes and other local areas.
There has been rebuilding or extensions to the building in the 12th, 13th, 15th, 17th and 19th centuries, as well as other more recent additions.
It is a beautiful building in its simplicity with many notable features. There is a recently written History Guide available in the Church.
Nowadays, St Christopher’s is one of seven churches in the West Purbeck Benefice. The other churches are situated in East Chaldon, West Lulworth, East Lulworth, Wool, Bere Regis and Affpuddle. Within the Benefice, the Winfrith, Lulworth and East Chaldon churches make up the Parish of Lulworth.
SERVICES
During a typical month there will be services held at the church at 11am on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Sundays of the month. On the 2nd and 4th Sunday, there is a Communion Service and on the 3rd Sunday, a ‘Songs of Praise’ Service with live organ music accompaniment.
A warm welcome is offered to anyone, residents and visitors alike, who wishes to join the church community in worship.
Cafe Church
On the 1st Sunday of the month from10:30am, Winfrith Village Hall hosts a quite different service. Using ‘state of the art’ sound and visual resources, led by the Reverend Jenny Alidina, the West Purbeck community comes together over coffee, tea and croissants. where worship and fellowship with one another are both equally embraced.
To quote Rev Jenny, “We want you to feel welcome and relaxed. Here’s a rough guide so you know what to expect. When we serve refreshments at the beginning of Café Church, this gives you a chance to chat with friends or, if it is your first time, the opportunity to meet our friendly church team. Building genuine friendships in a relaxed and enjoyable environment is very important to us. It’s all free, although we welcome donations too!
The village hall is a good venue – we are thrilled that so many people attend. At 10.45am there is a welcome from our Café Church. This is followed by an outline of the theme for the day. There are songs,
prayers, time to talk, discuss and reflect on the theme. There is always something exciting for the children to do. The service is usually finished by 11.45 although people often stay and chat while we clear up. Hope to see you on the first Sunday of each month. You are most welcome.
CONTACT DETAILS
St Christopher's is a friendly and outward looking community. If anyone wishes to have any further information about the church, please contact:
Vicar
Appointed Safeguarding Officer for the Lulworth Parish, including St Christopher’s
John Lineton
email: johnlinetonpso@icloud.com
OTHER DENOMINATIONS
St Josephs (Catholic), The Square, Wool (4 miles from Winfrith)
Wool Methodist Chapel, Lulworth Road, Wool (4 miles from Winfrith)