Southport and Sefton will come together at St Philip & St Paul with Wesley Church, Scarisbrick New Road in Southport for a joyful and inclusive Civic Service celebrating Mayor Jen Corcoran and the borough’s shared commitment to community, compassion and hope.
The service, held at 3pm on Sunday 6th September 2026, promises to be one of the most vibrant civic gatherings in recent years.
Music will set the tone from the very start, with G:Force Gospel Choir filling the church with their powerful sounds before the formal service begins.
Pupils from St Philip’s Primary School will take an active role in the service, a moment made even more special by the Mayor’s attendance at this school over 30 years ago.
Their involvement reflects her belief that Civic Sunday should celebrate not just tradition, but the future of Southport and the young people growing up within it.
The service also marks a meaningful connection with Rev Rachel Bray, who will deliver the address.
Mayor Corcoran was present at Rev Bray’s licensing as Vicar in October 2024, a milestone that began a shared journey of community leadership and partnership. Their continued collaboration highlights the strong relationship between civic life and local faith communities.
The church itself reflects this spirit of unity. Its Grade II listed building was consecrated 140 years ago, yet its modern worshipping community is a blend of those who have always called it home and the Methodist members who joined from Wesley.
The Mayor will take an active role in the service, delivering a reading from a passage celebrating unity, diversity and the strength that comes from many people working as one. It’s a message that mirrors her priorities for Sefton: community connection, shared purpose and lifting up every voice.
This year’s Civic Sunday will also welcome Mayors from across the region and the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside Peter Oliver OBE, strengthening ties and celebrating shared civic pride.
Mayor Corcoran said:
“I’m excited to welcome everyone to a church that holds a very special place in my heart. I was honoured to be part of Rev Rachel Bray’s installation, and I’ve seen firsthand the warmth, compassion and energy she brings to our community.
“The work that PPW does, from supporting local schoolchildren to offering a safe, welcoming Warm Space, reflects the very best of Southport.
“It’s also a privilege to welcome fellow Mayors and friends from across the region as we celebrate the people and places that make Sefton so special.
“Civic Sunday is about community, connection and pride, and I’m looking forward to sharing this moment with residents from every corner of our borough.”
The afternoon will blend classic hymns and modern worship, ending with an uplifting performance from G:Force.
An offering will be taken in support of the Mayor’s chosen charities which are Bebe’s Hive, Jacob Billington Trust, Plaza Cinema and Southport Dramatic Club.
Everyone is warmly invited to attend, celebrate Civic Sunday, and share in a moment of pride for Southport and the wider borough.
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