St. Mary Magdalene & St. Denys

Parish Church of Midhurst

Parish Office

Old Town Hall

Market Square

Midhurst

GU29 9NJ

Tel. 01730 815356

E-mail

 

OUR VICAR

 

Fr. Marcus Ronchetti

Fr. Marcus writes (September 2009)

I have now had the privilege and pleasure of being here in Midhurst for two years, and it has been a real joy getting to know you all, and working to make this beautiful town my home. 

 

I didn’t realise how much of a change it was going to be, and what a big task it was to start all over again. At times it has seemed like an uphill struggle, with so much to do, and so many things already happening, but together we have worked really hard and made a great deal of progress. I have to say, and I am very pleased to do so, that the people both within the churches of Midhurst and Woolbeding, and those not associated with church have made me very welcome, and have embraced this stranger with open arms, and for that I am truly thankful.

 

The two years seem to have flown by, and people I had not met before I came have become real friends, and we have much to celebrate. There is of course still much to do, and as parishes, congregations and members of the community, we are working well together. 

I am keen to work with members of the church at Midhurst to establish a regular crèche for our teeny weenies, along with a Sunday School that meets every week. We do have ‘Sunday’s Cool’ that happens on the 3^rd Sunday of each month, and of course our Sunday Morning Live family service at 9.30am on the first Sunday of Each month. But I would like to be able to offer something special for our growing number of young people every week. The good news is that members are showing an interest, so it will not be long now. 

 

I am also keen to build on our links with the Academy. Joe Vitagliano and his staff have made me more than welcome, and from October I shall have my own office and working space in the Academy. I can’t wait!

The Reverend Marcus Ronchetti joined us as our vicar in October 2007, following 10 years as priest of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Shoreham Beach, where he was the inspiration behind the annual Beach Dreams extravaganza, a highlight of the Adur Festival.  

Also it is my passion to build relationships throughout the community. With this in mind, I have, along with many others, started work on MADHURST, a Music, Art and Drama Festival for Midhurst, which will happen during the week leading up to the Bank Holiday in August 2010. Plans are underway for some great events, and we hope as many people as possible in and around Midhurst will take part and engage with what we have to offer. 

My greatest joy is leading the worship in out two magnificent churches, and I love the opportunities of preaching and teaching. I may be rubbish at it, but I do do it with enthusiasm!! 
I feel I am an approachable sort, and am always happy to talk. So if you would like to get in touch, then please don’t hesitate. I look forward to hearing from you, and meeting you if I have not already done so.

As ever,  
Fr. Marcus.

“From the Vicarage” is the monthly letter from Fr. Marcus to the parishes of Midhurst & Woolbeding.

The most recent letter can be found  HERE. 

Please visit our DOWNLOADS page for back-copies.