Since October 2023, I've had the pleasure of overseeing the Life Events administration for Baptisms, Weddings, and Funerals at SMR. It has been such a joy to be part of the friendly SMR staff team, and I have been warmly welcomed by everyone.

From the stunning building to the memorable carol services and concerts, many people feel a deep connection to SMR and wish to celebrate their significant moments here. I really enjoy engaging with those who may not regularly attend church or are unfamiliar with the Church of England's traditions, and a key part of this role is to provide a welcoming and positive experience for everyone interacting with us. If people don’t already have the right connection with the church we aren’t always able to hold their life event at SMR, but for baptisms and weddings there is always an invitation to build a connection by coming along to church services. Of course everyone is warmly welcomed at SMR!

Organising weddings and funerals involves guiding people in seasons of both joy and sorrow, through numerous steps and stages, ensuring everything goes smoothly from the initial enquiry to the event day.

This year I had the opportunity to help Laura lead a marriage preparation session for 6 wedding couples, and also visit a family before a funeral, which was such a privilege, especially as I am now stepping into ordained ministry too.

I look forward to what the next few months will bring here at SMR- we still have 6 more weddings to go this side of Christmas, and plenty more booked in, up until summer 2026!

Helena Whitwell