The Bishop of Peterborough is permitting local church ministers to decide how their churches can be opened in a cautious and controlled manner. For St John the Baptist in Tiffield this means we no longer need attendees to pre-register to come to a service.The wearing of face coverings is required in church particularly when moving around. Congregational singing is now permitted in services though masks can be removed for singing. Please maintain social distancing as you would in any other public space.Please look at the calendar for details of in-person services in Tiffield.
Tiffield Church has not escaped 2020 unscathed. The roof and gutters have seriously deteriorated in the past six months and leaks are damaging ceilings and plastered walls. The building, which is listed Grade2*, is on the ‘At Risk’ register at Historic England. Tthe lead roof has been patched in the past and the gutters hold pools of water. The slate roofs are also in a poor state. We have buckets and bowls in many places!Our historic church is more than just bricks and mortar though. For many villagers, past and present, it holds memories of the celebrations held there for weddings, christenings and the lives of those we have lost. It has been the stage for Tiffield Primary School nativity plays and is a place of solace for any seeking a quiet retreat. All this needs to be preserved. The church receives no financial assistance from the Church of England or any other national or local source. It must arguably be the most important and historic part of our village heritage with parts dating back to Norman times. It can only continue with support for this appeal.Circumstances are difficult for everyone at the moment and this is not the ideal time to raise funds, but repairs are urgent and grants are scarce and take a long time to obtain. The current essential repairs could cost in the region of £80,000. There is £27,000 in a fabric repair fund but that leaves a daunting £53,000 shortfall. Please see the attached leaflet for details.