Benefice of Blenheim - About Woodstock Church

Woodstock is an attractive small market town with a strong civic and community life, situated approximately 8 miles north of Oxford. The age profile of the population is atypical: around 70% of residents aged 65 and over. There is a small amount of infill building being carried out at the moment, and though there is some provision for social housing prices remain, on the whole, well above the national average. Much of the historic town centre was built to service the needs of the court of Henry II in the 12th century and the outstandingly beautiful Blenheim estate leads from its main street. Many of the well maintained houses date from the medieval period.

St. Mary Magdalene’s Church dates from the 12th Century. In 2003 new parish rooms were completed by extending the vestry. Recent improvements at the West Door provide flexible social space. It has a significant ministry of welcome to those visiting both the town and Palace.

The church is large and lively, with over 200 members: it has a central tradition of churchmanship but embraces many different styles. Links with our two church schools are significant: Woodstock Primary school (roll 214) and The Marlborough School - the only C.E. secondary school in the county - (roll 1035 ages 11-18) hold regular services and concerts in the church; the Team Rector is a governor of The Marlborough, and the Curate is a governor of the primary school; they are both heavily involved through assemblies, teaching, music and even sport!

Parish life is active: the PCC and others have been engaged with a vision process rooted in the diocesan vision, Living Faith, which is poised to bring about significant change in a variety of ways. In addition to our Sunday and midweek worship there is Messy Church, a Men's and Women's Group, Christianity Explored, Home Groups, Choir, Bell-ringers, Meditation group – all are part of the mix of church life. An active Friends of St. Mary Magdalene’s provides additional material support. St Mary Magdalene is covenanted with the Woodstock Methodist Church, and is actively involved with Churches Together.

The Benefice of Blenheim

Begbroke, Bladon, Shipton, Woodstock & Yarnton