South Western Synod URC

08/09/2026

July was month for events at Thornbury URC.

Early in the month we had the second history talk given by Robin Pencavel. A locally history society was invited and they really enjoyed the talk and refreshments afterwards. See the latest ‘Reformed’ for a taste of the talk.

On July 12th a magnificent Afternoon Tea was held for our own Minister, the newly appointed Moderator of General Assembly, Rev. Neil Thorogood. It was all a bit of a surprise for him, but it was a very special afternoon with some special guests and the most amazing menu. Some presentations were made to Rev Neil, including a very stylish gift from our Ukrainian friends who use our Church Hall as their ‘hub’

On Saturday 19th July, we held an organ recital by the renowned Simon Lole. The sound of the organ resonated round the Church building and the audience really appreciated the opportunity to hear him. A good sum was made to add to the Redevelopment project.

On 19th July the Bicentenary service was held. It included Hymns through the ages and a talk on key people in the Church through the last 200 years.

On 26th July, Rev Sue Cossey took the final act of worship in our Church before it shuts for around four months for the Redevelopment Work. She reminded the congregation that it was ok to feel worried, reminded us to pray and to look forward with hope.

https://www.urcsouthwest.org.uk/a-bumper-month-of-celebration-at-thornbury-urc/

07/09/2026

The Season of Creation (1 September-4 October) is
dedicated to God as the Creator and sustainer of all life.
Join A Rocha UK’s Season of Creation prayer and reflection
webinar on Wednesday 2 September to start this season
with others.

During this period of the church calendar, many churches
celebrate Harvest, thanking God for his provision through the
land and the food that it produces. If you are part of a church
or community, suggest that a service or gathering has a
Season of Creation focus. Prayers, worship, teaching and the
offering could focus on creation. Could there be an activity
with a creation focus too?

Explore more Season of Creation resources at:

A Rocha UK’s Eco Church programme equips churches in England and Wales to care for creation.

31/08/2026

Congratulations to West Street Church, Somerton!

They have completed the first of our Knitted Bible scenes - in the photo, you should be able to spot Joseph and his coat of many colours.

In addition, I have seen Tavistock URC's scene; they chose the Last Supper, and not only do we have all the disciples with Jesus, but we also have a beautiful table for them to sit around, made from locally sourced timber.

28/08/2026

On Sunday 30th August, we will be praying for: Hanham

👉 Click here for the full prayer diary: https://urcsouthwest.org.uk/synod/synod-prayer-guide/

Hanham Tabernacle United Reformed Church

27/08/2026

Single Friendly Church Week

27th September - 4th October 2026

The Single Friendly Church Network are inviting everyone – from church leadership to people in the pews – to join our 8-day campaign Single Friendly Church Week!

For one week, churches, leaders, and individuals across the UK are coming together to say clearly: single people at every stage of life are welcomed, valued, and included here. Whether you're never married, divorced, widowed, or a single parent, you belong at the heart of this community, and not on its edges.

This is your invitation to be part of the movement. Hosting an event during Single Friendly Church Week doesn't have to be complicated; it just has to be intentional. Together, we can inspire a culture shift that helps every person in your congregation truly flourish.

Not sure where to begin?

We want to make sure you have all of the resources you need to take part in whichever way suits your church community, so have created a variety of things to help you. Start with downloading our SFCW Resource Pack, joining our online Q&A sessions, or brainstorm with others how to celebrate Single Friendly Church Week.

Visit:

Single Friendly Church Week 27th September – 4th October 2026Why Single Friendly Church Week?Right now, many single people are leaving church feeling unseen, isolated, and unwelcome. Not because their faith has wavered - but because the communities that should embrace them have overlooked them. Th...

26/08/2026

Click below to read the latest edition of the URC Safeguarding Newsletter.

https://urc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Safeguarding-Newsletter-July-2026.pdf

22/08/2026

21/08/2026

Each year we prepare a Prayer Diary, covering all churches over 2 years, together with significant events and also praying for Synod staff.

On Sunday 23rd August we will be praying for: Glastonbury.

👉 Click here for the full prayer diary: https://urcsouthwest.org.uk/synod/synod-prayer-guide/

Glastonbury United Reformed Church & Community Space.

19/08/2026

St Andrew’s Church Improves Energy Efficiency with Eco Grant Support

St Andrew’s Church in Devizes has improved its energy efficiency with new double-glazed doors, windows, and a powered side entrance, supported by a Synod eco grant. The changes are already helping the building retain heat and reduce its carbon footprint.

👉 Click here to read the full article: https://www.urcsouthwest.org.uk/st-andrews-church-improves-energy-efficiency-with-eco-grant-support/

18/08/2026

Important Change to the definition of Regulated Activity in England and Wales

The Crime and Policing Act 2026 has introduced a change to the definition of Regulated Activity for those working and volunteering with children in
England and Wales. The new measures come into effect on 1st September 2026 and will affect
the level of DBS checks that some church workers and volunteers
need.

Previously, the ‘supervision exemption’ meant that some people working with children did not need a Barred List check if they were working under supervision (e.g. a helper who was never alone with children and always worked under the guidance of the group leader). The Act removes that exemption.

The amended definition means that a worker/volunteer is engaged
in Regulated Activity if:
They are involved in teaching, training, instructing, caring for, or supervising children; or providing advice/guidance on wellbeing
This takes place frequently, which is defined as on more than 3 days within a 30-day period

This now applies regardless of whether an individual is working under supervision or not. Where a person volunteers in multiple settings or with different groups, each instance of teaching, training, instructing, caring for or supervising a child counts towards the ‘on more than 3 days in a 30-day period’ condition.

Anyone engaged in Regulated Activity needs an Enhanced with Barred List DBS check.

The main impact on churches will be in relation to those involved with children’s groups, youth groups and activities such as Messy Church. Churches will need to:
Review roles to see whether there are any which may not previously have involved Regulated Activity but would fall under the new definition
Identify anyone who may have been working under supervision previously whose role would now involve Regulated Activity
Ensure all those involved in Regulated Activity (including existing volunteers) have an Enhanced with Barred List DBS check.

Good Practice guidance will be updated to reflect these changes. If you have any questions, please contact safeguarding: [email protected]