Rector: The Revd. Justin Bailey

Welcome! May I introduce myself? I'm your Rector. And before you ask, the difference between a vicar and a rector is (in rural parishes at least) of purely historical significance (it was about small and great tithes, if you really want to know). Both are parish priests.

So - welcome to your new home. I hope you will be very happy here. Do introduce yourself if you see me around. The Rectory, by the way, is in Aller Lane, Ansty (near the Fox). You will find it on the right just before Aller Farm. I am always happy to receive requests for baptisms, weddings, blessings, spiritual counseling etc.

As well as myself, we have a part-time Curate, the Revd. Helier Exon, who lives in Hilton. Our phone numbers are:

Revd. Justin Bailey 880372
Revd. Helier Exon 880082

We are fortunate here to have four lovely churches, and there is a service in each nearly every Sunday. Services follow a regular pattern -

All the above services are according to the Prayer Book (1662) except those marked * where the language of the rite is the modern idiom. "Holy Communion" is said; "Parish Communion", Matins and Evensong include music. Parish Communion at Hilton (3rd Sunday) includes what we call the "Children's Corner" - several young families attend, and organize activities in the vestry during the first half of the service.
There is no Sunday School here. Instead, we are seeking to provide suitable services in church. At Cheselbourne, you will find that there is a "Sunday Half-hour" every week at 10.00 (except the 2nd Sunday), which is very informal and aimed at families. Milton Abbas has Parish Praise (All-age Worship) on the third Sunday of each month.
Milton Abbas also has a small adult choir ( mainly unison singing). They practise on Friday nights. The organist Mrs House may be reached on 880672.
There is a METHODIST CHURH at Dewlish, and the service is at 10.30. If you would like information about other churches, please ask me.

Now for the inevitable subject of money. Each parish church has a "Friends" group to care for the building and churchyard, and to promote activities around the church, for all villagers regardless of religious affiliations. Our four parochial church councils are also grateful for help in paying their contribution to the Diocese for the cost of the Church's ministry. I would commend both causes to you - the maintenance of ancient churches and not-so-ancient clergy is not without financial implications!