Stratton

A traditional form of worship is at the heart of St Mary the Virgin, Stratton, where we meet fortnightly for a Eucharist or Evening Prayer. Though we are a small congregation, we have a real commitment to worship, and strong lay vocations amongst us. Members of our church and village community run the very popular 'Stratton Pop In' on Thursday mornings in the Village Hall, which is a great form of connection, company and news!

We are keen to develop closer links with families as our village is expanding rapidly. We have a newish children's area at the back of church full of toys and drawing equipment, and children are always warmly welcomed and involved (should they want to be) in our worship. Our seasonal services are particularly active and family friendly. In 2021, rather than hold a Carol Service in the church, we joined forces with other village organisations to sing carols on the village green. Easter brings our annual Easter Egg Hunt!

Two lay members of the congregation take it in turn to lead the monthly Evening Prayer service and occasional compline. We have a small PCC who are keen for new members to come and share their thoughts!

Our Church Building

The Church is open every day of the year, thanks to a group of volunteers. We also have an enthusiastic team of mowers who maintain the churchyard.

The original church dates to Norman times, around 1140, although there was extensive rebuilding in the 1890s. It has two unique assets: a decorated oak spiral staircase to the belfry, and tower of five bells.

The Friends of St Mary's was formed some fifteen years ago to raise funds to bring the church bells back into use. From time to time it assists the PCC with church maintenance costs. We have a small team of bellringers.

St Mary’s always tries to respond to appeals for help, be they international or local, and has recently supported the school by gifting a new resource to help teachers build confidence in leading collective worship in their classrooms.

Our Village Community

Stratton is a village that has grown in numbers due to its proximity to Dorchester and access to the A37 which bypasses the outskirts of the village and is a key access road between Dorchester and Yeovil. There are no village shops but St Mary's Church, the Saxon Arms pub, the village green and village hall are all located in the centre of the village and are a focal point for the community. The pub is well established and caters for locals and beyond. The village hall offers a range of activities including dance classes, art class, lace makers, choir, sport and is also popular for private hire events. There is a good community spirit with the village Facebook page, the Stratton Active email and an annual village fete.