St Nicholas is the ancient parish church of South Ockendon village in the County of Essex (now in the Unitary District of Thurrock) and forms that part of modern South Ockendon that is east of the railway line.

The church building has served the local community since the 12th Century, with additions and restorations from the 14th to 20th Centuries. It continues to be the home of a friendly worshipping community, and both building and congregation are at the heart of the life of the parish they serve.

The 21st Century sees this beautiful building continuing to be adapted for the needs of both congregation and community. 2008 has seen the installation of a new modern heating system in the church, making it a more comfortable place to worship through the colder months. In addition, a toilet and kitchenette have been added, both within a meeting-room created by partitioning off the south isle from the nave with glass screens. The new meeting room with be for church and community use, drawing into the building people who may not otherwise have contact with the church.

Similar screens have been used to enclose the chapel at the north-east corner of the building, creating a worship space for smaller groups and private prayer.

In June 2008, the the Church, The Royal Oak Pub and our friends form the Buckles Lane community jointly organised a Summer Fair on the Green and in the church grounds, when church building was open to the community. We are delighted with the positive response from everyone to the changes and look forward to using the building both for worship and community activities in the years to come.

The parish of St Nicholas South Ockendon is united with the parish of All Saints Belhus Park which serves that part of modern South Ockendon west of the railway line. The two churches are ministered to by one clergy team, The Rector and the Associate Priest, and work together to be God’s people in South Ockendon.

St Nicholas Church would like to invite you to be part of our worship on Sunday and Wednesday mornings, and welcome enquiries regarding baptisms and weddings. For information please contact The Rector, Revd. Brian Duckworth or The Associate Priest, Fr. Peter Rabin.

4 August 2009