"Moving to a new area is a major milestone, full of the excitement of fresh beginnings and the reality of unpacking all those boxes! Whether you have just arrived in one of our new housing estates or have moved into an established corner of the village, a incredibly warm welcome to Thurston!

Starting a life in a new community can sometimes feel a bit daunting, but you have joined a vibrant, supportive, and active village. As you settle in and begin to explore your new surroundings, we hope you quickly come to feel at home here.

At the edge of our village, but very much still at the metaphorical heart of it, stands St Peter’s Church. We have been central to Thurston’s life, its celebrations, and its challenges for centuries. However, while we cherish our deep history, we are very much a growing, forward-looking church family that evolves alongside the village itself.

I am Fr Ben, and together with the whole community at St Peter’s, I want to extend an invitation to you. Whether you are looking for a place to explore faith, a space for quiet reflection, or simply a friendly face and a cup of coffee, our doors are open.

We know that many people carry a certain image of the church in their minds—perhaps seeing it as a place that is judgmental, elitist, or full of rigid rules and conditions that you have to meet before you can belong.

At St Peter’s, we are actively working to dispel that image.

We are fully inclusive: We believe that a healthy community is one that welcomes all minds and all loves, without exception.

Come as you are: You do not need to sign up to a specific set of rules or change who you are to sit in our pews. There are no barriers here. You are welcome exactly as you are.

A God of love: Our focus is simply to restore the beautiful reality of God who loves everyone completely and unconditionally, and who is already active in your daily life in ways you might not even realise.

We are a community of ordinary people simply seeking to learn about and follow the "Jesus way"—a path of grace, kindness, and radical hospitality.

You don’t have to wait for a Sunday to connect with St Peter's, but if you do want to pop in, you will find a warm, relaxed atmosphere waiting for you.

As you navigate the coming weeks of adjusting to your new home, please know that St Peter’s is here for you. If you see me walking around the village or popping into the Co-Op, please do stop me for a chat—I would love to introduce myself properly and welcome you in person.

Wishing you every happiness as you settle into Thurston!"

The Rev'd Fr Benjamin Edwards
Vicar of Great Barton & Thurston