The parish (patron saint: St Leonard) is based on the village of Glapthorn in the Northamptonshire Nene Valley, about 2 miles northwest of Oundle, which has a population of about 270. There is a strongly active community spirit.
In 2019, Glapthorn won the titles of Best Overall Northamptonshire Village, Best Small Northamptonshire Village, and Best Newcomer to the ACRE Awards [click here].
The governing body of St Leonard's is the Parochial Church Council (elected annually by those on the church electoral roll). There are two churchwardens, who have special responsibilities. There is an annual meeting at which anyone who lives in the parish is welcome.
Services are taken by the Vicar, Associate Vicar, Curate, and qualified lay ministers (called Readers - one of whom lives in the village).
The Church Council is committed to openness. The minutes of Church Council meetings are posted on this website.
The church is always unlocked and open during the hours of daylight.
There is a monthly newsletter covering church and village affairs.
St Leonard's is with two other churches in the benefice: Oundle, St Peter's and Benefield, St Mary's.
Oundle (St Peter's) is a notable success story of strong growth, lively activity, and community engagement.
Benefield (St Mary's) (click here and here) is a traditional village church in a village which extends either side of a valley (Upper and Lower Benefield). The church building is remarkable for the work done there by the celebrated architect, Sir Ninian Comper - "An important specimen of the sumptuous Tractarian church" (quoted in Pevsner's Buildings of England).
The Village Hall (opened at the millenium) has excellent facilities and is well-used. Regularly, on Friday evenings, it becomes The Royal Oak club. At these popular events, there is a bar and food.
There is a also a branch of the Women's Institute and allotments association. A very successful Village Show is held annually, jointly with the neighouring village of Southwick.
There is a Church of England Lower School in the village with which the church has close connection. Pupils and parents regularly attend services at which the pupils present readings, plays, and songs.