Located in an elevated position on Sandgate Hill with access via the entrance to the Saga site St Paul's is a building people may miss as they drive along the main Folkestone to Hythe road. Indeed this small gem of a building is so well "hidden" that some of the locals are only just getting to know it!
The building started its life as a small Episcopal Chapel built by the Earl of Darnley. The present St Pauls was a Chapel-of-Ease until 1888, when it became a parish church. For further details regarding its history see History of St Paul's
Sadly over the years the building, particularly the sea-facing south side, has been battered by the elements and still requires some costly repairs, although much has already been achieved.
Sunday worship is varied. See Our Style of Worship
In recent years the link between the church and the local community has grown and special services held during the year have become very popular and well supported. On Remembrance Sunday we share our worship with some French friends along with various other groups connected to the village — the procession to the village war memorial is always a moving moment.
New initiatives are always taken seriously and we are starting to look at fresh ideas related to both mission and worship. We strive towards an "All-Member-Ministry".
The role of smaller House/Home groups are an important part of the teaching, learning and support network of this community as is the role of hospitality — with many "open house" sessions, shared lunches during the summer, visits to various hostelries in the village and regular refreshments within the church itself.
Most 10.30am Sunday services use specific service sheets based on Common Worship. Our main hymn book, at present, is Mission Praise but we quite frequently use other songs. We have a small choir that assists our worship some Sundays but the congregation sing well being led by various loyal organists.