Opening
“Churches used to be open during the day, didn’t they…”
“When can I get in to do the flowers for Sunday?…”
“I’ve never been inside; it would be nice to look round…
“I need to pick up my parish magazines…”
“I would like to light a candle and say a prayer…”
Well… Come in! St Leonard’s is open during the day, every day. Our church is here for everyone.
Church isn’t just for Sundays. Christianity is for all the hours in the week, not just for Sunday mornings. There’s a lot going on during the week to help us grow in our faith and support our community. We want to be a place of sanctuary (somewhere peaceful, somewhere safe where people can be themselves).
St Leonard’s is open weekday mornings and for scheduled services. Our church is here for everyone. Sometimes there will be a service taking place, and you are welcome to join in, or just to spend time in the church quietly.
Check the calendar or the what's happening page for special services and events at St Leonard’s. On days when there are no services, the church is open from around 9.30am until midday. St Leonard’s is a living church and we are blessed with a beautiful building. Come and sit for a while in the peace of God’s presence.
There are groups that meet in people’s homes, sessions for babies & toddlers, and Morning and Evening Prayer are usually said at 9am and 5pm Monday to Wednesday. There’s an 8am Eucharist on Thursdays, one at 10am on Wednesdays followed by open church. Older children meet through our affiliated uniformed groups.
We support the Soup Run, the Food Bank, Colchester CAP Debt Centre and the Night Shelter.
So we’re quite busy, really… want to be involved?
Weekday services
Morning Prayer: This is held at 9.00am on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
Evening Prayer: This is held at 5.00pm on Tuesday and Thursday.
We use Common Worship Daily Prayer; there are readings and prayers and it lasts about 20 minutes. One of our Ministry team is always at these services as we think it is important that the church is a place of regular prayer., as we think it is important that the church is a place of regular prayer.
Wednesday Eucharist. This is at 10am and lasts for about 30 minutes. It is a well-attended, said service using Common Worship (the same words as Sundays at 9.45 but slightly simplified and usually with one hymn). Afterwards there is the opportunity to receive prayer ministry in the Lady Chapel and refreshments are provided in the Nicholls Room.
Thursday Eucharist. This is at 8am in the Lady Chapel and lasts about 25 minutes. A completely said service using Common Worship. A quiet, prayerful start to the day.
You would be very welcome at any of these services.
Getting here
Parking
There is no specific car park at the church but parking is allowed in certain parts of Church lane and Lexden Road. Please be aware that these roads can be busy at times and spaces might be limited.
Bus routes
There is a bus stop in Lexden Road outside the church and on the opposite side. All buses going along Lexden Road into and from town will stop there.
Accessibility
There are a small number of steps with a handrail at the Church Lane entrance. The front of the church in Lexden Road has a wide pathway with no steps.
Assistance
If you need any assistance on arrival please ask. We are happy to bring the bread and wine directly to you during Communion.
Lexden Road
Colchester
Essex
CO3 4BL
If you'd prefer to navigate using Google Maps please use the button below