Thursday 13th August 2026
Read the latest news and events online and subscribe to our weekly emails at www.horshamct.org.uk/notices.
There’s plenty to discover across Horsham Churches Together.
In this week’s Notices look out for information about today’s partial solar eclipse, an inspiring story of Jamie’s journey from homelessness to a new life, and the Women Spending Time with God (WSTWG) August Gathering.
Our Prayer Focus marks International Youth Day and the eve of A Level results day. We pray for young people throughout Horsham District – for those awaiting results, making decisions about their future, and facing the opportunities and challenges ahead.
We hope you’ll find something to inspire, encourage and get involved in. Discover all this and more at www.horshamct.org.uk.
Today, Wednesday 12 August, Horsham will experience a spectacular partial solar eclipse, with around 92% of the Sun obscured at its peak. The eclipse begins at 6.18pm, reaches maximum at 7.15pm, and ends at 8.08pm.
As we look up at this remarkable sight, it can also remind us of the wonder of God’s creation and our place within it. “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” (Psalm 19:1)
Never look directly at the sun without certified eclipse glasses or a suitable solar filter. If you haven’t got eclipse glasses, check out this post from the BBC: ‘Three ways to watch the solar eclipse safely without glasses’.
After 35 years of homelessness, trauma and addiction, Jamie is now living independently in his first permanent home. With support from Turning Tides’ Recovery Project, the Fellowship and his church, Jamie has rebuilt his life and now uses his experience to inspire others on their recovery journey. He hopes one day to open a Recovery Café.
His story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when determination, compassion, faith and the right support come together. Turning Tides provides outreach, accommodation, recovery and resettlement services to help people experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives.
Read Jamie’s inspiring story and watch the videos: Jamie’s Story | Turning Tides
The demand for food from the Horsham Matters food bank is outstripping supply. In June, 3,684kg came in, and 5,021.kg was given out. That’s a gap of over 1,300kg! Behind those numbers are real families, real neighbours, real people who needed a little extra help to get through the month. Could you help close the gap by donating food, giving money, or joining a fundraising event? Please spread the word at your church so together, we can continue to make a real difference to people’s lives in Horsham District.
Christians Against Poverty (CAP) and Lifespring Church Horsham are running two free CAP Money Coaching courses this autumn for anyone who would like to gain greater confidence in managing their finances.
The interactive three-week course provides practical tools, budgeting skills and access to CAP’s online money management resources. It is suitable for anyone who wants to make the most of their money, whatever their financial situation.
One previous participant commented: “Anyone can benefit from the skills learnt during the money coaching course, regardless of their financial situation.”
Two courses are available at The Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham RH12 1JF:
To watch a one-minute introduction and book a place, visit capuk.org/trymoneycoaching. Alternatively, contact Lifespring on 07477 660531 or moneycoaching@wearelifespring.church
CAP also offers free face-to-face debt help for anyone struggling with unmanageable debt. More information is available at CAP Debt Help or by calling 0800 328 0006.
The latest Horsham Eco Churches newsletter is now available, featuring updates on the Climate Resilience Action Plan, celebrating a local church achieving a Gold Eco Church Award, and opportunities to get involved in Wildfire Patrols to help protect local green spaces during the summer months.
Churches are also encouraged to check whether their Fairtrade Place of Worship status is up to date and renew it if necessary.
To read the full August newsletter, visit Horsham Eco Churches – August News.
The Season of Creation is an annual, international ecumenical initiative that encourages Christians around the world to pray, worship and take practical action to care for God’s creation. It is run by A Rocha and begins on 1 September, the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, and concludes on 4 October.
This year’s theme is Living Water, based on Ezekiel 47:1–12, which portrays God’s life-giving water flowing from the temple, bringing healing, renewal and abundant life wherever it goes.
Churches are invited to explore the free resources, including the 2026 Celebration Guide, worship materials, educational resources and the introductory YouTube video. Why not register your church’s activities and join thousands of congregations around the world taking part in the Season of Creation?
For registration, resources and more information, visit the Season of Creation website.
Single Friendly Church Week, 27th September – 4th October 2026, is an opportunity for churches to celebrate and value single adults as an important part of church life. Organised by Single Friendly Church, the week encourages congregations to reflect on how welcoming and inclusive they are for people who are single, widowed, divorced or never married.
Free resources, ideas and practical suggestions are available to help churches recognise and support single people throughout the week and beyond. Why not take this opportunity to review your church’s culture and ensure everyone feels they truly belong?
As part of the week, there is a Belonging Conference on Saturday 26 September which will bring together church leaders and members to explore how churches can become places where everyone is valued, connected and able to belong.
Visit the Churches Together in England website to find out more and access the resources.
Save the date for Sunday 13 September. Education Sunday is an annual opportunity for churches to pray for everyone involved in education and to celebrate the vital role of schools, colleges and universities.
This year’s theme, “Living Well Together”, encourages reflection on how education can help build communities marked by reconciliation, mutual respect and understanding.
This year’s resources are produced in partnership with the Bible Society. All Age Worship services and outlines are now available to help churches mark Education Sunday and strengthen relationships with their local educational communities. Visit the Churches Together in England’s website for more information
As Harvest Festival approaches, Horsham Matters is inviting churches to partner with them in supporting local families and individuals facing hardship across our community by holding a Harvest food collection.
Harvest is a wonderful opportunity to give thanks for God’s provision and to share those blessings with others. Donations of food help Horsham Matters provide essential supplies and practical support to people across our community who are struggling with the rising cost of living and food insecurity.
To help churches organise a Harvest appeal, Horsham Matters can provide a range of resources, including:
Horsham Matters can also arrange to collect donated food directly from your church (by prior arrangement). Alternatively, donations can be delivered to the Horsham Matters Community Hub at: Unit 1, Redkiln Close, Horsham, RH13 5QL. Monday to Friday, 9am–4pm.
Churches planning a Harvest collection are encouraged to let Horsham Matters know the date of their Harvest celebrations or food drive. This helps ensure that sufficient volunteers are available to collect, sort and distribute donations. For more information, or to arrange for a speaker to visit your church, or to organise a food collection, or to request resources, please contact Kelvin Glen: kelvin.glen@horsham-matters.org.uk.
Turning Tides is inviting churches and community groups to support its Harvest Appeal by helping provide essential food for people experiencing homelessness across West Sussex.
Recognising that the cost of living continues to affect many people, Turning Tides understands that there are many worthwhile causes to support this Harvest. However, if your church is considering a Harvest collection, they would be grateful if you would remember those experiencing homelessness.
Harvest is a time to give, share and care for those in need. Every donation helps ensure people have access to the essentials they need. To find out more, view the Turning Tides Harvest Gift List or donate via the Amazon Wish List, visit the Turning Tides Harvest Appeal.
If you would like to take part in the Turning Tides Harvest Food Appeal, email: donations@turning-tides.org.uk with your name, contact details and organisation, and the Turning Tides team will be in touch.
Explore how your church can grow as a community of care, hospitality and belonging, for all families.
The Bible makes it clear that God cares deeply about children and families whose circumstances make them especially vulnerable. He calls His Church to share His heart of compassion by offering hospitality and creating communities of care and belonging.
‘The Invitation’ is a campaign, single-session event and resource run by the UK charity Home for Good and Safe Families, which mobilises local churches to create communities of care, hospitality, and belonging for vulnerable children and families in the care system
Come and discover practical ways we can respond to God’s call, supporting children and families so that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
Find out more and sign up by visiting The Invitation at the Safe Families and Home for Good website.
Could you spare 3–5 minutes for the persecuted church?
On Sunday 1st November 2026, churches across the UK and around the world will mark the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, setting aside time to remember and pray for Christians who suffer because of their faith in Jesus.
This annual event is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters, to be inspired by their courage and perseverance, and to respond to the call of Hebrews 13:3: “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.”
Open Doors has produced a free church resource pack to help churches participate, whether you have just a few minutes in your service or are planning a dedicated focus. The pack includes:
To request your free church resource pack, visit: https://www.opendoorsuk.org/act/idop
Saturday 15th August 2026 at 10:30am
A Bring & Buy Coffee Morning will take place in the Rectory Garden at St Andrew’s Church, Nuthurst. Plant swap, books, jigsaws, coffee and cake
Saturday 15 August, 10.30am–12 noon
Rectory Garden, Nuthurst Street, Nuthurst, near Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 6LH.
Download a flyer for this event.
Thursday 20th August 2026 at 6:00pm
Interested in gardening? Join Horsham Matters for their upcoming allotment open evening and discover what our growing community is all about. Whether you’re curious about the work the volunteers have got up to in nurturing, planting and harvesting a variety of vegetables, or want to find out how our crops provide essential food for our two Connecting Cafe’s and 15 weekly food banks, we’d love to see you there.
The Horsham Matters Allotment project doesn’t just help us provide necessary food for those in need but brings people together through gardening. The open evening offers the chance to explore the site, meet those involved and find out more about our future plans.
Visitors can also enjoy tea and cake for just £2.50, for you to enjoy whilst you find out more about the project. All proceeds will go towards helping those in need across Horsham District.
Wednesday 26th August 2026 at 9:30am
St Margaret’s Warnham and St John’s Broadbridge Heath will be hosting ‘Beach Club’ – a Summer Holiday Club for children aged 5–11 years.
The three-day event will be filled with fun activities including games, crafts, Bible stories, beach sports, and much more.
Booking information coming soon.
Download a flyer for this event
Friday 28th August 2026 at 12:00pm
The UK’s largest Christian music festival, Big Church Festival, is returning to the beautiful Wiston Estate over the August Bank Holiday weekend (28th–30th August 2026). It’s a brilliant opportunity for our local churches to step outside our usual routines, gather under the Sussex sky, and celebrate together as one wider body.
Why Make the Trip to Big Church Festival?
Visit bigchurchfestival.com to grab your tickets, check out the full line-up, and see options.
Saturday 29th August 2026 at 6:30pm
Women Spending Time with God (WSTWG) is an interdenominational monthly gathering for women, presented by Christian Love Ministries. The August gathering will offer an opportunity to ‘Connect, Pray, Worship and Be Encouraged through the Word of God’.
Saturday 29 August 2026, 6.30–8.30pm
Bohunt School, Bailey Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 6AP
All women are welcome. Download a flyer for this event
Saturday 5th September 2026 at 10:00am
Would you like to deepen your understanding of the Bible and grow in your relationship with God? The Way of the Spirit offers an approach to studying Scripture that seeks to bring God’s Word to life through the Holy Spirit.
Everyone is welcome to come and discover the resources available, meet the Horsham team and hear about the vision for local Bible reading groups.
Saturday 5 September 2026, 10.00am–12.00pm
Kingdom Faith Church, Foundry Lane, Horsham RH13 5PX
Refreshments will be provided.
For further details, see The Way of the Spirit, Horsham, information leaflet and website.
Saturday 5th September 2026 at 10:00am
The Salvation Army Horsham will be holding a Table Top Sale on Saturday 5th September June from 10:00am to 1:00pm. Come and browse a variety of tables offering great finds at bargain prices. There’s something for everyone.
Venue: The Salvation Army, Booth Way, Horsham RH13 5PZ. Download a flyer for this event.
Saturday 12th September 2026 at 12:00pm
The Southwater Church Fair & Fun Dog Show will be taking place on Saturday 12th September 2026, from 12 noon to 4pm, in the beautiful Vicarage Garden, Church Lane, Southwater.
The afternoon will include crafts, games, a tombola, raffle, refreshments and, of course, our fun dog show. It’s always a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy some family-friendly fun and support local causes.They
If you sell handmade crafts, local produce, gifts, or run a community organisation, then book a stall by emailing southwaterchurchfair@hotmail.com
Saturday 12th September 2026 at 6:00pm
St Margaret’s Warnham is hosting a Fundraising Quiz & Curry Evening, offering an enjoyable evening of food, fun and fellowship. Tickets are £12 per person, including a curry or alternative meal.
WHEN: Saturday 12th September 2026
TIME: 6:00pm
WHERE: Comrades Club, Hollands Way, Warnham RH12 3RH
For more information and to purchase tickets, please download the event flyer.
Saturday 19th September 2026 at 9:00am
Do you enjoy walking and want to support your local community? If so, join Horsham Matters for a sponsored walking challenge as they celebrate 20 years as a charity. The event brings local people and businesses together to build connections while raising funds to help tackle poverty and hardship across the Horsham District.
Professionally guided by Pied A Terre Adventures, participants will walk 20km through the beautiful South Downs. Two package options are available, making it easy to take part in a way that suits you. Download an information sheet for further details.
This will be taking place on Saturday 19th September, starting at 9am from Riverside South Downs Café, Amberley
For more information and to register, please visit the Horsham Matters events page. and download a flyer.
Sign up today to help make a difference!
Wednesday 23rd September 2026 at 10:30am
Evergreen is a one-day conference for Christians who care about and work with older people. Hosted by Pilgrims’ Friend Society, the conference offers biblical teaching, practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement for this vital and growing area of ministry.
For more information and to book your place visit the Pilgrims’ Friend Society’s website.
Saturday 3rd October 2026 at 7:00pm
The Salvation Army Symphonic Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Andrew Mackereth, will be performing at Horsham Salvation Army, Booth Way, Horsham, RH13 5PZ, on Saturday 3 October 2026 at 7.00 pm.
Tickets are £10 for adults, with free admission for children and students. Tickets can be booked at TICKETSOURCE.
For further information, please email horsham@salvationarmy.org.uk or telephone 01403 254624.
Download a flyer for this event
Friday 9th October 2026 at 7:30pm
Grab your dancing shoes…it’s time for a Ceilidh!
Horsham Matters is inviting everyone to an evening of fun, music and dancing at its fundraising Ceilidh on Friday 9 October.
Sussex-based Square The Circle Barn Dance Band will provide the music, with the four musicians and a caller will guide you through fun dance moves all night, no experience needed, just bring your energy!
A great night out for friends, family, and anyone up for some good old-fashioned fun, all while supporting a local cause; Horsham Matters.
The event takes place at St John the Evangelist RC Church Hall, Horsham. Doors open at 7.00pm, with dancing from 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 per person, and a licensed bar and raffle will also be available. Download a flyer for this event.
Tickets can be booked online at horshammatters.beaconforms.com/form/d0573b79
.See you on the dance floor!
Saturday 10th October 2026 at 12:00pm
Prayer changes things. From 10 to 18 October 2026, Christians across the UK are being invited to join together for the National Week of Prayer. It is a chance to pray for our churches, our communities and our nation.
The theme for 2026 is: Gather. Remember. Return. The invitation is simple. Come back to God, remember his faithfulness and seek him together. Prayer is more than bringing our requests to God. It is about listening, trusting and making room for him to work in our lives and communities.
Churches and individuals are encouraged to take part in whatever way works best. It might be a prayer gathering, a prayer walk, a small group meeting or time set aside at home.
Let’s pray for:
• our local communities
• those facing hardship and uncertainty
• churches across the UK
• a renewed love for God and his ways
Find out more and get involved on the National Week of Prayer website.
Thursday 22nd October 2026 at 11:00am
Join award-winning social work educator, social justice advocate and author Vivian Okeze-Tirado for the third annual Community Anti-Racism Conference in Horsham.
Organised by the not-for-profit VOT Community Conferences CIC to mark UK Black History Month, this inspiring and practical event brings together people from across the community to explore anti-racism in everyday life, professional practice and community settings.
Free
Thursday 22 October 2026, 11.00am–4.00pm
Roffey Millennium Hall, Horsham (RH12 4DT)
The conference is open to all who want to deepen their understanding, build confidence and develop practical skills for promoting racial justice in their communities and workplaces. For more information and to reserve your place visit the Eventbrite website.
Download a flyer for this event and also read the newspaper feature of the 2025 event.
Friday 4th December 2026 at 7:30pm
Get into the festive spirit at the Horsham Matters ‘Magic of Christmas Concert’ on Friday 4 December at St Mary’s Church, Horsham. Enjoy an evening of seasonal music featuring Singergy Gospel Choir, professional harpist Margaret Watson, and the Horsham Musical Theatre Choir. For more information visit the Horsham Matters website.
All proceeds will support Horsham Matters’ work helping local residents facing hardship. Buy your tickets today.
Event Details:
Saturday 5th December 2026 at 11:00am
Save the date. Carols in the Carfax is back for 2026.
On Saturday 5 December 2026, churches from across Horsham will gather at the Carfax Bandstand to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Enjoy festive music from the Slinfold Concert Band, sing well-known Christmas carols, hear the Christmas story through Bible readings, and listen to a short message of hope. Bring your family. Invite a friend. Stop by while you’re Christmas shopping. Everyone is welcome.
Saturday 5 December 2026
11.00am – 1.00pm
Carfax Bandstand, Horsham
Promotional Graphics
Please use our promotional graphics to help you spread the word and invite others within your church:
Noticesheets – Event Graphic
Projectors – Image / Widescreen PowerPoint / Standard PowerPoint
Social Media – Portrait Post / Square Post / Story / Reel Video
Posters – A3 Landscape / A4 Landscape
Postcards – 4 x A6 postcards on a A4 sheet
On International Youth Day and the eve of A Level exam results day, we pray for young people throughout Horsham District.
Do you have any news, events, jobs or volunteering opportunties to share from your church or Christian charity? Please email your notices to admin@horshamct.org.uk by noon on Wednesday for publication in next week's HCT Notices.
Whilst we've carefully chosen this content because we hope it will be useful to you and your church family, we are not directly responsible for the content from external groups and organisations.
