Church of St John the Baptist

15/06/2026

Tree Safety Update – Church Green

Many people will have noticed the fencing around the large Norwegian Maple tree between Church Green and the main road, together with the temporary closure of the Church Green entrance nearest to the tree.

Recently, a passer-by drew attention to a significant split between two major forks of the tree. Following this report, Danbury Parish Council (who are responsible for this tree) arranged for the tree to be inspected by a qualified arborist. The arborist identified a substantial structural defect extending a considerable distance down the trunk and advised that the tree could present a risk to public safety.

In light of this professional advice, St John’s installed temporary fencing and netting around the area and closed the entrance immediately adjacent to the tree as a precaution. Access to Church Green remains available via the entrance opposite The Griffin.

Following the arborist's report, Danbury Parish Council and Chelmsford City Council have determined that the tree must be removed on safety grounds. Arrangements for the necessary work are now being made.

We appreciate that this tree has been a prominent feature of Church Green for many years and that many residents will be saddened by its loss. However, the safety of those using the Church, Church Green, the churchyard, St John's Meeting Room, the allotments, and surrounding footpaths and Main Road must take priority.

Thank you for your understanding while Danbury Parish, and Chelmsford City councils arrange for the work to be carried out.

13/06/2026

Church Tower Open Now - Fantastic Views!!

09/05/2026

Come and Sing - Gospel Workshop

Our day will be led by Gemma and Howard Francis, founders of The Big Sing. Gemma was a singer with The London Community Gospel Choir where she met Howard who is one of the UK's top keyboard players and Gospel songwriters.

There will be a cost of £15 to attend the workshop (under 18s free). You will need to bring your lunch with you. Tea, coffee and cold refreshments will be available.

If you have friends and family that you think would enjoy this then do encourage them to come and join in. There is no need to have any singing experience or to be able to read music. However, there is a need to make music and have fun! Please feel free to circulate this note to anyone that you think may be interested. If you are in a choir, please do circulate it within your group. Do involve your children or grandchildren.

I hope that this excites you as much as it does me!

Join us for a fun, uplifting Gospel Workshop where you’ll sing your heart out and feel the joy!

08/05/2026

🔔 Open Tower & Teas ☕🍰

Come and join us on Saturday 13th June 2026 for our Open Tower & Teas event!

Enjoy the chance to climb the church tower, take in the views, and then relax with tea, coffee, lunches and cakes in the meeting room.

📅 Saturday 13th June 2026
🕙 10am – 4pm

Tower climb restrictions:
• Minimum age: 8 years
• Minimum height: 46 inches
• Children under 12 years old (or under 54 inches) must be accompanied by an adult

We’d love to see you there!

01/05/2026

29/04/2026

Please consider donating to Christian Aid this Christian Aid Week

https://caw.christianaid.org.uk/envelope-2026/danbury-christian-aid-2026

11/03/2026

Lunchtime Concert - Friday 13th March at 12.15pm

This week we are excited to welcome Kyomi Seed (marimba - Graduate of The Juilliard School, New York) and Rosemary Wainwright (violinist with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra) who will present a duo recital : From Bach to John Williams. This will be an incredible concert by two masters. Do come!


Lunches will be available from 11.45am. Entry is free.