Open Church
Open Church is a simple invitation: come in, sit down, and take a moment. You don’t need to know what to do, what to say, or what to believe before you arrive.
A church with open doors
During Open Church, St Catherine’s is open as a quiet and welcoming space for prayer, reflection, or simply to sit for a while.
You’re welcome to light a candle, read, enjoy the stillness, or have a gentle chat if you’d like. There is no expectation to take part in anything.
Anyone. Whether you’re exploring faith, returning after time away, or simply looking for a calm space — you are welcome here.
Quick details
When: Tuesdays
Time: 11:00am–3:00pm
Where: St Catherine’s, Tranmere
Address: Church Road, Tranmere, Birkenhead, CH42 0LQ
If you’d like to speak to someone before you visit: ….. or ……... (You can see more details in .)
When it’s open
Open Church runs every Tuesday. You can arrive and leave at any time within the opening hours.
Open Church hours
Tuesdays: 12:00am–2:00pm
It’s completely normal to feel unsure. You can simply step inside, have a look around, sit quietly, and leave whenever you want.
Sunday worship
Sundays: 11:00am
Tea & biscuits and face-to-face conversation afterwards.
Other weekly community life
- Welcome House: Wednesdays 1:00pm–3:00pm
- Food bank: (see popup for how to check times)
- Cheeky Monkeys: (see popup for how to check times)
What to expect
Open Church is calm, simple, and unpressured. Here’s what usually happens.
When you arrive
- A warm welcome if you want it.
- You can choose a seat, look around, or take a moment of quiet.
- No one will quiz you, test you, or put you on the spot.
Welcome style: gentle, at your pace.
What you can do
- Sit quietly and rest.
- Light a candle.
- Pray, reflect, or simply breathe.
- Chat to a friendly person if you’d like.
If you’d prefer no conversation, that’s okay.
No pressure, no expectations
Some people come in for two minutes. Some stay an hour. Some come regularly just to have a quiet place in the week. You can take part as much or as little as you wish — at your own pace.
A quiet space in the week
For many people, Open Church is less about “doing church” and more about having a peaceful place to be.
Quiet, calm, respectful
The church is kept as a calm environment. If you need a quieter corner, more time, or a gentle welcome, that’s understood here.
That’s completely fine. You can simply nod, take a seat, and enjoy the quiet.
If you’d like anything adjusting to help you feel comfortable, please tell a host.
Practical bits
- Toilets: Available on site (ask a host).
- Step-free access: See Accessibility popup.
- Seating: Plenty of seating.
- Wheelchair spaces: Available.
Open Church FAQ
If you’re wondering “what do I actually do?”, you’re not alone.
Do I have to be religious?
No. Open Church is open to everyone. Some people come with faith, some with questions, and some simply for quiet.
Do I need to talk to anyone?
No. You can sit quietly and leave when you wish. Conversation is optional.
Can I bring my children?
Yes — children are welcome with a parent/carer. Open Church is a calm setting, so we simply ask that children stay with you. If you ever want to ask anything about children’s safety or support, use the Safeguarding popup.
Is it safe?
St Catherine’s is committed to safeguarding and creating a safe environment for all. Use the Safeguarding popup for the parish and diocesan safeguarding contacts, plus out-of-hours guidance.
If Open Church is cancelled due to exceptional circumstances, the easiest check is via the Contact popup (phone/text).