Contemplative Beauty
The existing church was rebuilt in 1640, with changes in the 19th Century including addition of the tower, and is located in a picturesque setting within farmland on the banks of Rodden Brook. There are 5 public footpaths which come to the church. A number of the many walkers and ramblers who use these public footpaths sit in the churchyard where they appreciate the peace and tranquillity that the site offers. A small and attractive church hall, previously a school room, is next to the church. It has a well equipped servery and a WC. It is interesting to note that during research on the church by John Day (a former churchwarden) an unbroken record of rectors was traced from the year 1200 when a medieval chapel stood on the site. A number of the congregation reside outside the parish, but attend because they are attracted by the strong commitment of Rodden to the Book of Common Prayer.
A Warm Community
Rodden prides itself on its strong sense of community and the warmth of its welcome to new worshippers. There is a programme of social events, including coffee mornings, soup and pudding lunches, cream teas and a Harvest Supper. Such events enthuse those who organise them, deepen the congregation’s relationship with each other, attract a wider group of individuals than our regular church goers and communicate the sociable, Christian warmth which is the essence of Rodden.
Worship
We are keenly committed to continuing the use of the Book of Common Prayer for our Sunday services and to making the Prayer Book services for baptism, matrimony and burial available to all who wish them to be used for the christening of their children, their wedding or the burial of those they love. We consider it greatly beneficial if our new Priest in Charge is happy to conduct services using the Book of Common Prayer as our congregation is used to and appreciates it. Occasional worshippers also come because the Book of Common Prayer is being used. To encourage all people of Christian faith, we do, however, acknowledge that occasionally different services may be used.
The Future
Our ageing congregation has made great efforts over the last few years to maintain our worship and provision of pastoral care, but we are very much aware of the need to draw in new members, including younger people, to join our congregation. As to the substantial new housing development within the parish boundaries, we recognise the inability of the present congregation to engage effectively. We need to look to, and welcome support and leadership, not only from a new incumbent, but also from others in the benefice and deanery. We look forward enormously to being led, in doing so, by an enthusiastic and sympathetic new Priest in charge.