The Benefice of Cinderford with Littledean was formed in December 2010. The benefice covers Cinderford, Littledean, Ruspidge and Soudley and is part of the Forest South Deanery within Gloucester Diocese. The Benefice serves the community of Cinderford and the surrounding areas.
The benefice includes three parishes: St Ethelbert’s, Littledean; St John’s, Cinderford, Ruspidge and Soudley and St Stephen’s, Cinderford.
The three Parish churches within the benefice offer a variety of service styles according to a range of church traditions, but all are friendly and offer a warm welcome. Please look at the individual church pages for more information and service times or contact us for more information.
The Vicar of the Benefice is Mike Barnsley, who started his time here on 4 March 2011. Mike enjoys being situated at the heart of the Cinderford community at The Vicarage on Belle Vue Road. You may have seen Mike out and about around Cinderford and the Forest on his Harley. Mike would love to meet you for a chat or a prayer. Contact him on (01594) 822286 / 07903 436009 or send a message.
Christmas Tree Festival
August 9, 2025Our annual Christmas Tree Festival will take place between Friday 5 December and Sunday 7 December. At St Stephen’s Church, Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, GL14 2AA. Trees decorated by a range of local businesses, individuals, charities, community groups and organisations. Decorations to purchase or make your own, refreshments, music, FREE entry and a very warm welcome! Twinkly lights & lots of festive atmosphere help to kickstart your Christmas season! If you’d like to get involved by having a tree, please […]
TableTop Sale
August 9, 2025TableTop Sale (just like an indoor carboot!) Saturday 30 August with a wonderful range of items. Come and search through and find anything from toys to clothes to household items to beautiful jewellery and so much more!!! There will be a mix of new and preloved, helping to save items from landfill, plus some beautiful handmade items. Perfect for picking up some bargains… Saturday 30 August, 10 am – 2 pm at St Stephen’s Church (Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, Forest […]
Clothes Swish
August 9, 2025We are hosting a Clothes Swish (Swap) on Friday 29 August at St Stephen’s Church (Belle Vue Rd, Cinderford, GL14 2AA). Drop off items: 12 noon – 4 pm Swish open: 6 pm – 8 pm Refreshments available, FREE entry. Tips to help make the swish run smoothly: The idea is to reduce clothing waste as well as help refresh wardrobes at a low cost!