St Martin’s, Fivehead and St. Catherine’s in Swell, together with the Parish of St Andrew’s in Curry Rival, form a ‘United Benefice’ within the Ivelchester Deanery.
However, due to a reorganisation within the Diocese and Deanery, some time ‘later’ in 2024 (or in 2025), these 3 parishes will become part of a new, larger benefice, under a different name, that will also include the parishes of Aller, High Ham with Low Ham, Huish Episcopi cum Langport, and Drayton. This new benefice will have a Rector and an ‘Associated Priest’ (the latter having been licensed for this role, on 28th July). The 7 parishes of the to-be-extended benefice are jointly and with support from the Diocese and Deanery, involved in the process of appointing a new rector.
We welcome Christians of other denominations and none, as well as seekers and visitors. We aim to grow in personal relationship with God, through his son Jesus Christ, and in supportive relationships with each other. We value prayer and Bible study, seek God’s spiritual gifts and his courage in sharing the gospel with others.
Both churches are open during the day. You are always welcome to visit and to enjoy quiet prayer and reflection. Visitor guides are available at both Churches.
Church Services
Click to view planned services here:
St. Martin’s Church
History
St Martin’s is dedicated to the Roman soldier who gave half his cloak to a starving beggar. St Catherine’s Church, is dedicated to the Saint who was martyred on a wheel. You will find both Saints depicted in canvas paintings on the reveals of the East window in St. Martin’s Church.
Both Churches are Grade 1 listed and stand witnesses to the worship of God over the centuries and provide to those who meet within their walls, peace and great strength in the knowledge and love of God.
Contacts
| Rector | Position vacant | ||
| During the vacancy, Curate Rev Mark McKnight is responsible for the provision of spiritual oversight in the 3 parishes in the benefice. He is also the point of contact for enquiries regarding general St. Martin’s church matters and for weddings, baptisms and funerals.
Rev Mark can be contacted on 01458 251375 or 07471556366 or e-mail markmcknight5@gmail.com. |
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| Churchwardens – for general enquiries: | |||
| Fivehead | Mrs Trish Allen | 01460 281674 | trish333@btinternet.com |
| Swell | Mrs Anna Rees | 01458 253067 | pittcourt@talktalk.net |
Safeguarding
This parish takes the well-being and safety of the children and vulnerable adults who attend our church very seriously. If you wish to raise a safeguarding concern, please contact either Rev. Mark McKnight on 01458 251375, Trish Allen, Church Warden on 01460 281674 or Mrs Jo Greatwich, our safeguarding officer by phone at 07905 669880 or by e-mail at safeguardingcmac@gmail.com.
Alternatively, you can contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Team on 01749 685135 and find more information on their website: https://www.bathandwells.org.
Links
Urgent repair work – Feb 23 news update can be viewed here.
Some notes on St. Martin’s Church and its Bell Ringers can be viewed here and St. Catherine’s here.
A note about Church Records and Parish Registers can be viewed here.
Fees for Special Services (Baptisms, Marriages and Funerals) are shown here. Additional information on Parochial fees is available in the Church Porch.
St. Martin’s Church Data Protection Policy (2018) can be viewed here.
The Annual report and Accounts for St Martin’s Church can be viewed here.
