Churches Of St Barnabas & St Patrick, Parish Of High Spen & Rowlands Gill

The churches of St Barnabas & St Patrick are in the Diocese of Durham within The Church of England. All are welcome.

THE PARISH
The Parish of High Spen & Rowlands Gill lies in the heart of the Derwent Valley, to the western edge of Gateshead District and bordering County Durham. There are two parish churches: St Barnabas Rowlands Gill and St Patrick High Spen, and these fall within the Gateshead West Deanery. The Parish was formed in 1962, having previously been part of Winlaton Parish, and the two churches have shared one clergy post since its inception.

CHURCH OF ST BARNABAS
St. Barnabas is positioned in the very centre of Rowlands Gill next to Tesco’s. Built of brick in 1956 to a traditional design the new St. Barnabas replaced the tin church which had been on the same site. In the nave there is seating for about 120 on the “Mousey” Thompson oak pews, but the organ and choir balcony above the rear of the nave can accommodate up to 30 extra people.
The church garth is well maintained and attractive and has won many awards. There are benchs within the garden which are well used by local people.
Services at St Barnabas: Sunday 8: 00 am Holy Communion (Said Service) Sunday 10: 30 am Holy Communion (Sung Eucharist) First Sunday In The Month Is All-Age Worship with Communion Thursday 9: 30 am Holy Communion (Said Service) (Weekly Except First Thursday Of The Month)
Family worship: we hold regular "Pasta & Praise" events and also "Cafe Church @St B's" to allow families to enjoy worship and fellowship in a fun and informal manner. Details of the timings of these services will be posted on the page timeline.

CHURCH OF ST PATRICK
St Patrick’s Church was consecrated on 17 March 1890 and, until recently, has undergone very little alteration. It is located midway between the villages of High Spen and Highfield but is not physically within either of those communities. However, it enjoys splendid views of the Derwent Valley and surrounding area and its grounds adjoin the much-visited public cemetery.
Services at St Patrick's: Sunday: 9: 00 am Holy Communion (Sung Eucharist) Thursday 9: 30 am Holy Communion (Said Service) (First Thursday Of The Month Only)
Our 'Little Friends at St Pat's' is a pre-school group which meets the third Thursday in the month 9 30-11 00 for fun, craft, games and christian fellowship. Mums, dads, Grandparents and carers are all welcome and during school holidays activities are arranged for 'Big brothers and sisters'

ABOUT US
St Barnabas and St Patrick have active and enthusiastic teams behind all major events which occur at both churches. The Parish has a Church hall at St Barnabas' which opens its doors to the community and has numerous events taking place throughout the year.

This year we have held two choir concerts one a 'Rock Choir' singing gospel and popular music; the other a visit from our ever poplar local ladies choir The Gibside Singers whose wide repetoir covers everything from scred anthems to classical pieces and popular melodys.

Other regular events and 'special days' include; Cabaret Supper, Quiz Nights, Parish Breakfasts, Church Fairs, Family Barbeques, the Tree lighting & Christmas 'Big Sing' Carol Service, Coffee Mornings, Harvest-In and the famous St Patrick’s Cream Teas. Both churches celebrate their annual patronal festivals with St Barnabas Church carrying their celebration across a weekend.

We have an active Mothers Union and Ladies Fellowship group which meet monthly, taking prayer, discussing current issues and holding deanery events.