Greete is essentially a farming community, comprising a small population spread over a comparatively large area. It has no village shop, pub or meeting room, giving the church a central role and making it of vital importance to its residents,
Unlike many villages which have become “gentrified” by the arrival of wealthy incomers, Greete has remained true to what it really is – a country village, wholly at ease with itself, perhaps a little old fashioned and certainly protected by its location from many of the more unpleasant aspects of 21st century life.
St James’, Greete has two services a month, usually Matins and Holy Communion alternating, with an average congregation of 14, the attendance for Matins being significantly lower than that for Holy Communion. Despite the comparatively low level of attendance at services, there is very strong local support for the church, as evidenced by the magnificent response to last year’s appeal for funds to carry out repairs to the roof and other parts of the building.
The social life of the village revolves around the church – each year, the main Festivals of Easter, Harvest and Christmas attract a full church. Also, the Rogation Day service, followed by a walk and picnic, the annual Progressive Lunch and Carol Party are well-attended highlights of our social calendar.