welcome to highfield
Walking into a big church like Highfield, when it is full of people, can be a daunting experience! It can seem as though everyone knows who everyone else is and what is going on except you. At Highfield we believe that 'church' is more about the people than the place, and so we want you to feel welcome. If you are new to Highfield, this information should help you find your way around...
At each service there is a team who seeks to welcome those who attend. If you would like to find out more about Highfield, please speak to one of them – they will be wearing a yellow badge. Each term there is a Sunday afternoon tea to welcome newcomers and visitors. This is also an opportunity to meet Graham Archer, the Vicar, and other members of staff.
some basic information
Highfield Church (also known as Christchurch, Portswood) is an Anglican Church in the Diocese of Winchester. Highfield Church is on Highfield Lane in Southampton. Click here for more details on how to find us.
our staff team
Highfield has a large staff team — both full time and voluteers. Here are a few details to get you started ...
Vicar: Graham Archer
Associate Minister: Chris Halls
Curate: Paul Ashman
Click here for more information on Highfield's staff team.
sunday services
8am Holy Communion This service is a chance to meet with God and take communion first thing on a Sunday morning.
9.30am 'Compass' Service This is quite a relaxed, family friendly service where people of all ages try to learn about what it means to know God and find his direction in our lives. During the service there are groups for children.
Highfield at Eleven This tends to be a more traditional Anglican service. There is often music from the Church Choir. There are children's groups in the Church Centre.
6.30pm Service This tends to be more informal than the other services and is popular with young people and students. There is a vibrant atmosphere and a more modern feel to the music and presentations.
For more information on the services, go to the Service Details page. This terms service programme is also available. During school holidays, the Compass and 11am services are combined into a single service at 10.30am. See the service programme for exact times of services.
other groups
At Highfield, church life isn't confined to a Sunday. There are a large number of events that go on throughout the week. For those that want to know about God, there are Alpha courses (and Being Sure for those over 60).
For those with pre-school children, there is Tiddlywinks and The Ark, whilst for older people there is Coffee Pot and Tea Club. For young people there are groups both in services and at other times in the week.
For those in their 20s, 30s or a little older, TNT+ is a mainly social group focused on building friendships between Christians, and promoting fellowship whilst having fun. Finally, for those with a sporting passion, Highfield Church has football and cricket teams.
With so many people in the church, it is a great idea to join a home group to get to know a few people and have the opportunity to learn more about God and how to follow Him. Home groups meet in people's houses every other week or so and we can help you find one that is close to you. More information is available in the Home Groups pages.
for children
Highfield runs Children's Groups during the Compass and 11am Sunday services.
During Compass Services, the groups are:
- Creche (up to 18 months)
- Tumblers (from 18 months to 3 years)
- Scramblers (3 to 4 years)
- Climbers (School Years R, 1 and 2)
- Explorers (School Years 3–6)
- Pathfinders (School Years 7–9)
During the 11am services, the groups are:
- Climbers and Explorers Combined (School Years 2–6)
- Pathfinders (School Years 7–9)
More details on Highfield's Children's work is available here.
for young people
At Highfield, there are lots of activies for the youth ranging from large youth groups to small groups; from trips and outings to weeks away; from involvement in a large, growing church to a good sense of family and friendship. Full details of what goes on see Highfield's Youth sub site.
for students
There is plenty going on for students at Highfield. Students are more than welcome, and encouraged to get involved in all aspects of life within the church. For more information, go to the student area of the web site.
need help?
There are times when we appreciate the support of others – perhaps someone to listen to us, or someone to talk things through with, or simply share a prayer together. It might be about something new and exciting in our lives, or a time to grieve quietly about a disappointment or loss, or a chat about the different opportunities, or to pray about the next step on life’s journey. Whatever the circumstances, we have a team who are happy to visit anyone in the parish. If you or someone you know would appreciate a phone call or a visit, please contact the church office.
accessibility
An AFILS (hearing induction loop system) is always operating.
Churches Together With Deaf People in Hampshire holds a monthly communion service in Highfield Church on 4th Sunday at 3.00pm fully signed and supported - all welcome.
The Church is wheelchair accessible.
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