Photo: Enjoying Build a Faith at Langton Green
Despite being in an interregnum - a period without a vicar - All Saints, Langton Green is continuing to grow its congregation.
Sally Anne and Emma, are the dedicated and dynamic churchwardens whose passion for people is lighting new paths into faith for families and individuals alike. With the support of visiting vicars and volunteers, the Sunday services continue to flourish in some unexpected ways.
New life in early morning worship
Sundays begin with an 8am service, remarkably, the most attended time of worship at All Saints. Recognising the potential for this early morning gathering and the emerging ‘family vibe’ among worshippers, the church seized the opportunity.
What began as a traditional early service has now bloomed into something far more dynamic with the launch of two additional family-focused offerings: Build a Faith and Chocolate Church.
Each week, while the main service takes place in the church, either Build a Faith or Chocolate Church runs concurrently in the adjoining hall, bringing worship to life in unexpected, joyful ways for families.
Photo: Tricia volunteers at the activities
Build a Faith is exactly what it sounds like - a Lego-themed exploration of faith, where Bible stories and spiritual lessons are built, literally, brick by brick. It’s an interactive experience that sparks both spiritual imagination and biblical understanding.
On alternating weeks, families step into the relaxed atmosphere of Chocolate Church, a café-style service with hot chocolate, croissants, and table-top worship. It's a place where families can gather, reflect, and grow in faith together—without worrying about noise or making a mess
“These special services are a great way for families to worship at church together,” says Sally Anne, smiling. “We wanted to give people a gentle and welcoming way to dip their toe in the water, especially if they’re not used to coming to church. There’s no pressure—just an open door.”
Worship that grows with you
For Tricia, a dedicated volunteer working with children’s worship, the impact has been evident. “These services keep children engaged in a way that really matters,” she says. “Helping children learn about faith while they’re young sets a strong foundation for life.”
Emma, who acts as service leader during this largely lay-led chapter of the church's life, also echoes that sentiment. “It’s always been our mission to be a church that's truly integrated into the community. These services help us live that mission.”
Photo: Sally-Anne speaks to a parent at Build a Faith
And it’s working. One local parent shared how much it’s meant to find a place that welcomes her family just as they are: “My children have specific needs, and I was nervous about bringing them to church. But Chocolate Church and Build a Faith have been such a blessing. We feel at home here.”
Another parent reflected, “It’s given us a special moment each week to connect as a family through faith. We’ve never had that before and greatly look forward to Sunday worship now.”
A church for everyone
Rev Sheila, a retired priest supporting All Saints during the interregnum, has been deeply moved.
“The commitment of the churchwardens here is exceptional,” she says. “It’s lovely to see such vibrancy and initiative from Sally Anne and Emma who always have a smile on their faces and are always available for everyone.”
Photo: Retired member of clergy, Sheila,presides over the Eucharist
For Langton Green, it all comes back to one thing: being a place of welcome. “No matter why or when you come,” Sally Anne says, “we’re just glad you’re here.”
At a time when many churches are seeking new ways to grow and serve, through creative worship, strong leadership, and an open-hearted community, All Saints, Langton Green are proving that Church can be built with Lego bricks, chocolate, seeking Jesus, and of course love.