More usually known as Dorchester Abbey, the Abbey Church of St Peter and St Paul is the parish church of Dorchester-on-Thames and is rich in history and heritage, art and culture.
Dorchester-on-Thames is a small Oxfordshire village with just over 1,000 inhabitants, located eight miles south-east of Oxford. It has a lively and active congregation that seeks 'to be an inclusive, lively and welcoming community sharing God's love with all'.
They aim to achieve this by:
- Celebrating the presence of God through worship, music and art;
- Strengthening church and community life in the village;
- Welcoming and caring for all those who visit the Abbey;
- Sharing time, talents and money with those less fortunate at home and abroad;
- Seeking spiritual growth, learning and personal development for all;
- Caring for the Abbey as a holy place.
More than a church
Dorchester Abbey serves not only as the spiritual centre of the village, with many different parish activities, but also as pro-cathedral and place of pilgrimage. It is a popular tourist destination, educational resource and, as the largest public building in south Oxfordshire, a much-sought after venue for concerts and other major events.
Whether you come as pilgrim or visitor of any faith or none, we look forward to welcoming you to the Abbey and to the last remaining monastic building, the Guest House, home of the famous tea room and museum.
This introductory text is taken from the Abbey's website, where you can find much more about the life and history of the Abbey.