During World War 2 East Worlington had two different rectors. In 1939 the resident rector was Reverend Twyneham Heron Encombe Wood, who had moved to East Worlington in 1937. In 1942 he was appointed as vicar of a parish in Bournemouth, his birth town and left East Worlington. The incumbent rector in 1942 was Reverend William Humberstone Maddock who located to East Worlington from Liverpool.
The two rectors, though very different in background and experience played key roles in supporting the parish during the war years. The following highlight some of their activities and contributions to the East Worlington community.
- In October 1939 Rev. T. H. E. Woods officiated at the wedding of Mr. Francis Keener, Town Farm, West Worlington, and Miss Gladys Eileen Brewer in St. Mary’s Church, West Worlington.
- In April 1940 Rev. T. H. E. Woods officiated at the wedding of Miss Elizabeth (Betty) Mary Parish and Mr. Robert Avre in St Mary’s Church West Worlington.
- Rev T. H. E. Woods, previously a Major in the army joined the Home Guard in East Worlington where he was Head Warden and in September 1940, he was invited to the parish of Down St Mary to attend a Sunday church parade service attended by their Home Guard. After the service the Home Guard marched past for the major’s inspection.
- In March 1940 Reverend T. H. E. Woods, was appointed Probation Officer (males) for the South Molton Petty Sessional area.
- In July 1941 Reverend T. H. E. Woods held a two days’ convention at East Worlington Rectory and invited parishioners and clergy from other parishes to attend.
- On leaving the parish in 1942 the Reverend T. H. E. Woods arranged for Messrs. Hannaford, Ward and Southcombe, Ltd., to conduct a sale of surplus furniture. It was reported that attendance was high and good prices achieved.
- In September 1943 the Reverend W. H. Maddock officiated at the wedding of Gwendoline Mary Yendell and Pte Archibald Frederick Tanner.
- In July 1943 Reverend W. H. Maddock officiated at the wedding of Pearl Pincombe and Lesley Nott at West Worlington Church.
- In December 1944 Reverend W. H. Maddock conduced the funeral of Mrs E. Butt in West Worlington Church.
- In December 1943 Reverend W. H. Maddock officiated at the funeral of Thomas Beer in West Worlington Church.
- In April 1944 Reverend W. H. Maddock conducted the funeral of Mr. G. J. C. Smyth, East Worlington.