The Church of England has a byline that says: "A Christian presence in every community."
That is prominent through the 232 parishes in the diocese - and on which most modern civil parishes are or were founded.
We often create confusion by using the word 'church' in two ways: properly, it is the name for the people of God, who share faith in Jesus Christ. But as often as not, we also use it to describe the building in which each local segment of the Church meets. But the parish is the basic unit. It is governed by its PCC elected by the parishioners each year along side the incumbent (variously known as vicar, rector, priest-in-charge, team vicar or team rector. Like so much in the Church of England, centuries of responding to the needs of the faith and communities has resulted in many terms with subtle meanings).
Our churches are often amazing places that as well as looking upward in worship, look outward and contribute greatly to the local community. It may be running food banks, supporting schools, running dementia support groups or providing welcome to refugees. Parenting classes, meeting places, history or parenting classes.
Our churches serve the whole community and provide weddings, christenings and funerals to anyone who lives within the parish (with occasional caveats).
The Find A Church section makes it easy to identify your local Church of England church and parish by simply putting in an address or postcode, and from there find out about services and contacts for that parish.