Godly play explores stories from the Bible using artefacts and objects to engage children in discussion.  A fun way for children to get to know and enjoy the Bible stories that we know well.

Thursday 7^th May 1pm                                                                           

Morning Service celebrating that many hundreds of weddings which have happened in the Abbey. There will be an exhibition of wedding memorabilia relating to the Abbey and ancient Marriage Registers. We hope to invite as many people that have been married in Dorchester as possible to this service – so if you haven’t heard from us please contact us via the Festival website!! Similarly, if you have photographs or other items you are willing to lend please get in touch!!

Sunday 10^th May 10.15am

Festival Café

A special morning of praise and worship packed full of different styles and talents! From the quiet of the Book of Common Prayer communion to John Hardwick’s Praise Party there’ll be something for you to enjoy whether you are 9 months or 90!  Come when you like, stay as long as you wish. Breakfast served all morning!  

8am        1662 communion in the Abbey

9.30am    John Hardwick’s Praise Party with the ‘Double Impact’ Band

John is an experienced and brilliant musician, songwriter, storyteller and juggler who travels the world leading worship as does Harry Barrett of One Way Puppets who will join us for a puppet show (11.00am.) The programme will also feature Canon David Winter, writer and broadcaster (10.15 am) and the Reverend Natalie Garrett – an actress and a vicar! - who writes and performs her own material.

All the timings given here are approximate – detailed timings available nearer the event in publicity and on the website.

Sunday 3^rd May 8am-12noon                                                                                                       Tent