2015 marks the 1,500th Anniversary of the death of St Maxentius, who was born in Agde, France in 445AD

St Maxentius Church, Bradshaw is the only church in England with dedication to Saint Maxentius.

Each year, the church celebrates the feast of St Maxentius on the Sunday closest to his feast day (26th June) but this year, in recognition of the 1,500th anniversary of his death, the Parochial Church Council led by Vicar, Janina Ainsworth, have planned a week of celebratory events and activities.

On Sunday 21st June there will be one single eucharist service at the church at 10am followed by the annual St Maxentius Barbecue in the church grounds. All are welcome

On Saturday 27th June, an exhibition of works about St Maxentius’ life and about the church, created by pupils from the Day School and members of the PCC and congregation, will be displayed within the church and open to the public from 10am until 4pm.

On the same day a coffee morning will also be held in the church with hot and cold drinks and cakes and other goodies on sale, as well as games and activities for children in the church grounds. All are welcome to both of these events and prior booking is not necessary.

On the evening of Saturday 27th June, a Gala Dinner will take place at Breightmet Golf Club with The Rt Revd C P Edmondson, Bishop of Bolton as the guest speaker, and entertainment from Bolton School Jazz Band. Tickets are priced £30 each and need booking in advance.

On Sunday 28th June, there will be one festal eucharist service at the church at 3.30pm, the service being lead by The Rt Reverend Dr David Walker, Bishop of Manchester. This celebration service will be followed by drinks and cakes and again, all are welcome.

Rev Janina Ainsworth of St Maxentius Church said “As the only church dedicated to St Maxentius, we are proud of our heritage and the responsibilities our dedication brings. The Celebratory Week promises to offer great fun and celebration and an opportunity for those living in our community who might not have visited us before, to come along and find our more about the church, the school and our varied and active associated organisations. Please do come along and join us!”

St Maxentius Church of England Church is located on Bolton Road in Bradshaw and is part of the Turton Moorland Team Ministry in the Walmsley Deanery.

There is evidence of a church or chapel being located at the Bradshaw site dating back to the early 1600s.

Today, the church has an active and vibrant congregation, sunday school and day school and a great many associated organisations including Rainbows, Brownies and Guides, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, Choir, Mothers’ Union, and other groups.

For more information about the church or any of the events within the week of celebrations, in the first instance please contact Claire Warner, who will then redirect enquiries to the relevant person.