How Can We Help?

As vital to our lives as Sunday worship is, we hope that the church is much more than that. We aim to be witnesses for God's love for everyone, and to serve Him by serving the community in Great Ayton and further afield. We want to be there at those important moments in people's lives — baptisms, marriages and funerals — and whenever you just need someone to talk to.

Coming to a service

Two church services take place on a Sunday morning: 9:00 am on the first and third Sunday of the month, and 10:30 am every week. Enter the church by the front doors at the top of the sloping path from the High Street. You will be welcomed by a steward and shown to a seat if necessary. We're not a formal church and you won't be expected to know or understand everything! See the Worship page for more information.

Baptism

Baptism is the practice of the Methodist Church to welcome your child or yourself into the family of the Church. It is a simple ceremony that usually takes place within a main act of worship, so the baptismal family feel part of the whole church. The service is friendly, welcoming and accessible to all. As one of our members said: “As a parent myself I really valued having my children welcomed into a church family that is loving and accepting.”

There is no charge for a baptism at Great Ayton Methodist Church. To make arrangements, contact Rev Rob Weir (01642 724968, robweir@albatross.me.uk), who will arrange to visit you and answer any questions.

Weddings and renewals of vows

As a Methodist Church we are registered to perform your wedding ceremony — and whether you are marrying someone of the same sex or the opposite sex, we'd be delighted to perform it. Our worship space is a modern, light, airy space with comfortable seating that can accommodate the most intimate weddings but can seat up to around 120 people. The service, although traditional, is welcoming, friendly and personal to your needs.

Our warm, spacious hall can be used for refreshments after your ceremony, or as the venue for a full non-alcoholic wedding breakfast provided by your chosen caterer (hall rental at an additional charge).

Funerals

Of the difficult times we face in our lives, the loss of a loved one is surely the hardest. As a church, it is important for us to be alongside you and help in the best way we can by taking the thanksgiving funeral service for your loved one. We're here to support and care. Contact Rev Rob Weir (01642 724968, robweir@albatross.me.uk) for more information.

A listening ear

The church has a pastoral care team of visitors whose role, along with the minister, is to listen, support and care for all people in a non-judgemental way. The team makes routine visits to members and friends, and takes on extra visits to the housebound, those unable to come to church, people who may be chronically unwell and people with personal struggles.

For more information, or if you feel you need support, contact Rev Rob Weir (01642 724968) or the pastoral leader Eileen Cowen (01642 723241).

Finding a house group for fellowship

House groups take place throughout the week on different days and times. They allow close and supportive friendships to develop, deepen the faith of their members, generate mission and service initiatives, and provide support at difficult times — in many ways they are the glue that holds the church together. If you're interested in joining a house group, contact the worship portfolio leader Jeanette Hardy (01642 714799) or the church office (gamc.secretary@gmail.com).

Booking the church or hall

Different parts of the premises may be booked either individually or as a whole. See the Facilities and Room Hire page for details.

Volunteering

Looking for an opportunity to get involved in a helping capacity? The events and activities we run need a lot of helpers, and we keep having ideas about new ways to serve the village, spread God's word and raise money for charity. From making coffee and catering to working in a children's group, we're always looking for more help.

If you feel able to offer help in any way, contact the minister, Rev Rob Weir (01642 724968, robweir@albatross.me.uk), a member of our leadership team, or the church office. We're a friendly bunch and you'd be very welcome. All volunteering opportunities are subject to safe recruitment checks, as all roles may involve contact with children or vulnerable adults.