Everyone who lives in Crosthwaite and Lyth will know of St. Mary's church. It is a beautiful building and, nestling on the hillside, remains an ongoing symbol of the Christian faith being lived out in this parish. St. Mary's is part of the Church of England, but is here to serve everyone who lives here, regardless of their background. Thus we want to offer a warm welcome to those of any denomination and none.
A church is far more than just a building; it is in fact a gathering of people, a focus for the community. It is a way in which we draw together, establish community and learn how to love and serve one another… These days we all have questions about belief and faith; it’s not that we don’t want to believe, it’s just that we find many challenges to faith in today’s world. We want to be honest about these and at St. Mary’s we try to demonstrate an honest and practical way of living life as a Christian.
Our vicar is Rev’d. Michael Woodcock, who is the person to contact about special services and any personal concerns (015395 68276). If you are new to Crosthwaite and Lyth and want to get to know your neighbours and local community, then why not come along to St.Mary's
St. Mary's is part of a team of eight parishes and we share our vicar with Cartmel Fell, Winster and Witherslack. However, we are proud to say we have a service every Sunday.
The monthly pattern is generally as follows, but there are occasional variations so it's worth checking the church notice board or the parish magazine:
1st Sunday of month - 6.30pm
Evensong
2nd Sunday of month - 11.00am Holy Communion (CW)
3rd Sunday of month - 6.30pm Evensong
4th Sunday of month -11.00am Holy Communion (CW)
5th Sunday of month - A United service rotates around the parishes in
the team
- check the Noticeboard for details
Coffee and refreshments are served after the 11.00am services
We also have a Sunday Club for children aged 3-11 which meets in church at 11.00am on the 2nd Sunday of the month. Contact Michelle Woodcock (015395 68276) for details. We also have a church Choir which meets to rehearse on Friday late afternoons.
Our Church wardems are:
Mr. Matthew Dobson 015395 68849
Mrs. June Childe 015395 60945
Church Choir
There is an enthusiastic, regular choir, mostly ladies, who practise in church most Fridays, 4-5pm (winter) and 4.30 – 5.30 (summer). An augmented choir of 30 mixed voices sings at Easter, Christmas and on special occasions. A joint choir, including singers from neighbouring parishes, sings whenever there is a 5th Sunday. The choir is affiliated to the RSCM. New singers are always welcome.
The Church Organ
The one-manual organ, built in 1865 by Wilkinson of Kendal was overhauled in 2005.
Banner picture from "Cameos of Crosthwaite and Lyth"