Wider Community

Our Twin Parish in Växjö, Sweden

The Diocese has developed a relationship with Växjö in Sweden and the Cathedral of St Sigfrid (whose icon is displayed in St Paul’s chancel). St Paul’s Parish has established its own twinning with Mariakyrkan (St Mary’s Church) in the Växjö diocese. We keep in regular contact with them and there have been exchange visits. During Covid we also exchanged videos and prayers to provide mutual support.

Churches Together in Wokingham

St Paul’s Parish is an active member of Churches Together in Wokingham (CTW) which maintains a visible Christian presence in the life of the Wokingham community. CTW also acts as a very effective communication hub for all of the Christian groups in the area. CTW organised the hustings for the recent general election.

Sonning Deanery

St Paul’s Parish plays a very active part in the Deanery, currently providing both the Lay-Chair and the Treasurer. Sonning Deanery is currently going through a time of transition, with half of incumbents across the 13 benefices having been appointed in the last two years.

Appendix 1 – Sonning Deanery

Local Councils

St Paul’s works closely with the town and borough councils. Civic services are shared between St Paul’s Church and All Saints. Members of St Paul’s clergy have, in some years, been Mayor’s chaplains. The previous incumbent was on the ‘Vision Steering Group’ which gave a unique opportunity to shape the future of our borough. Currently a member of our clergy is on the ‘Resident Quality Group’.

Mariakyrkan in Växjö

National election hustings – arranged by CTW

St Pauls is an important member of our Churches Together in Wokingham network and it has been great to see relationships between our two Anglican churches in the town flourish over the last few years. We hope and pray that this will continue as we work together to serve the people of Wokingham.
Rev’d Hannah Higginson – All Saints

The strong, positive relationships across the town’s churches have enabled some really significant cooperative efforts in ministry and mission to our town
Rev’d Nick Hudson – Wokingham Baptist Church

The St Paul’s area is very diverse in many ways, and we work to ensure that everyone feels included and part of the community. We would welcome a new rector who supports our values of inclusivity social cohesion and responsibility.
Imogen Shepherd-DuBey – Councillor