Weybridge Parish – One Year On: Reflecting, Listening and Looking Ahead

Representatives from across the new Weybridge Parish gathered on 30th April for their fourth meeting since April 2025. Reflecting on the first year, Canon Chris Spain described the journey as “a marathon, not a sprint,” recognising that while much progress has been made, change takes time to be felt across parish life. Important foundations have been established, including closer collaboration between clergy, regular meetings of parish secretaries, and the development of parish-wide groups for finance, communications, IT, and formation.

A strong theme throughout the evening was the importance of shared leadership and the contribution of lay people in helping parish communities flourish. The experience of Esher and Thames Ditton, where parish life has continued while their priest has been unwell, was discussed with admiration and gratitude. It was recognised that while this has brought challenges, it has also revealed the remarkable generosity, resilience, and capability of the parish community when they are encouraged to step forward.
​
The meeting also looked ahead to future priorities, including improving communication, strengthening outreach to young people and schools, developing opportunities for formation and mission, and building a stronger sense of belonging across the parish. One of the highlights of the evening was hearing about the new Friendly Café initiative at Christ the Prince of Peace, Weybridge, which is already helping to combat loneliness and create community. The overall tone of the meeting was hopeful, collaborative, and realistic, with a shared commitment to continue growing together as a welcoming and missionary parish community.