On Sunday, 17th November at 2:30 PM, All Saints Church, Totley will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a special centenary service, recreating the very first service held at the church in 1924. This unique service will offer a traditional service based as closely as possible to the first service in the building 100 years ago.
The service will be led by the Bishop of Sheffield and feature music from the Steel City Choristers, creating a memorable and atmospheric event. Local dignitaries, former vicars, and members of the congregation will gather to mark this momentous occasion. Reflecting on the importance of the centenary, the Bishop of Sheffield, the Rt Rev’d Dr Pete Wilcox said:
“The mission of All Saints’, Totley is as relevant today as it was 100 years ago: to help local people to find faith in Christ and to serve the wider community with generosity. This centenary is an opportunity not just to reflect on history, but to seek a future filled with faith, hope, and love for the generations to come.”
Rev’d Ben Tanner, Vicar of All Saints, shared his thoughts on the church’s journey over the past century:
“All Saints is a vibrant and lively church that is committed to sharing the good news of Jesus with Totley and beyond. It’s been incredible to see God’s hand in the recent growth of the church, especially among children and young people. The faith and care of those who established this building continue to bear fruit today in 21st-century Totley.”
Rev. Tanner also reflected on the significance of the service’s traditional elements:
“Although it’s a bit of an unusual service for me, it is exciting to see that we stand in a long history of sisters and brothers who have worshipped the Lord in this place. It will be a relatively rare sight as I wear what my children like to call ‘daddy’s big dress’—formal robes that haven’t changed much since 1924!”
Mrs Angela Waite, who has been part of the All Saints family for over 40 years, shared her reflections:
“I’ve been part of All Saints for over 40 years, and it’s been incredible to see how God has worked through this church. From small beginnings, we’ve grown into a vibrant and welcoming community. The centenary reminds me of the countless prayers, friendships, and lives changed over the years. I feel blessed to have been part of this journey and excited to see where God will take us in the future.”
Dr Ben Christmas, who joined the church as part of the church graft two years ago, expressed her excitement about being part of the church’s continued growth:
“When I first joined All Saints as part of the church graft, I was amazed by the warmth and generosity of this community. It’s been incredible to be part of a church that’s so rooted in its history, but also open to new ideas and growth. In just two years, I’ve seen God do amazing things here, and I can’t wait to see what He has in store for us next.”
After the service, a champagne reception will be held in the Church Hall. Guests will also have the opportunity to view a special exhibition curated by the Totley History Group, showcasing the church’s rich heritage and ongoing connection with the local community.
As Rev. Tanner noted, the centenary is as much about the future as it is about the past:
“This centenary isn’t just a time to look back—it’s a chance to think ahead to how we can continue to be a church that helps people encounter God and serves the wider community with love and generosity.”
Founded in 1924, All Saints Church was built to serve the growing population of Totley, becoming an independent parish that same year. Over the past century, the church has played a central role in the spiritual and communal life of the village. Today, with an average Sunday attendance of 130, the church continues to thrive and engage with the local community, providing vibrant youth programs, community outreach, and special events like the immersive Christmas Experience.
For more information about the centenary service and other upcoming events, visit All Saints Church Website.