Inclusivity is one of our four pillars

We strive to be an inclusive church embracing a hospitable Christianity.

We extend a big, warm, open invitation to everyone and anyone to come and join us, irrespective of ability and disability; gender identity and sexuality; age and race; wealth and social status; background and education.

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are most welcome here.

Inclusive Church Network

The community of St Mary’s, Witney, is delighted that our church is a member of the Inclusive Church Network. 

We believe in inclusive church: a church which celebrates and affirms every person and does not discriminate.

We will continue to challenge the church where it continues to discriminate against people on grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality. 

We believe in a Church which welcomes and serves all people in the name of Jesus Christ; which is scripturally faithful; which seeks to proclaim the Gospel afresh for each generation; and which, in the power of the Holy Spirit, allows all people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Jesus Christ.

All are Welcome

Welcome if you are young or old

Welcome whatever your race or ethnicity

Welcome if you are married, partnered, single, gay, straight, or bisexual

Welcome if you are a man or a woman, cisgender or transgender, or if you are non-binary

Welcome if you cannot hear or see, if you are sick or well, happy or sad

Welcome if you are rich or poor, powerful or weak

Welcome if you believe in God all of the time, some of the time, or are still exploring

Come with your gifts, your pain, your hope, your fears

Come with traditions that have nourished you or hurt you

Come with experiences that have shaped and changed you

Come with a mind open to learning and a heart open to love

Come and listen for the Spirit who invites us to love our neighbours wholeheartedly, seek justice, create peace, and practice compassion.

No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are most welcome here