St Paul’s Church, Monk Bretton, to Celebrate 150thAnniversary of Foundation Stone Laying St Paul’s Church in Monk Bretton will mark a major milestone this summer as the parish celebrates 150 years since the laying of the church’s foundation stone on 6 July 1876. To honour this historic occasion, the church has planned a full programme of special events running from 5–12 July 2026, inviting the whole community to join in the celebrations.The anniversary week will feature a rich variety of services, music, and communitygatherings, including: Afternoon Tea with a Musical Recital A Choral Evensong using the Book of Common Prayer, featuring a visiting choir A Community Barbecue A Brass Band Concert A “Songs of Praise” ServiceAlongside these events, St Paul’s will host a special exhibition of photographs and memorabilia, showcasing the many activities, milestones, and memories that have shaped the life of the church over the past century and a half.The church is inviting local residents, past and present, to contribute to this exhibition.Anyone with photographs, documents, artefacts, or personal items connected to St Paul’s is warmly encouraged to get in touch if they are willing to loan them for display.“This anniversary is not just about the building — it’s about the generations of people who have worshipped, celebrated, and built community here,” said a spokesperson for St Paul’s. "We hope the whole village will join us in marking this remarkable moment in our shared history.”Full details of event times and exhibition arrangements will be released in the coming weeks.About St Paul’s Church, Monk Bretton. The original church was built in 1839 but by the 1860’s was deemed unfit for purpose, sofunds were raised to build the present St Paul’s which has served as a spiritual and community hub for Monk Bretton for 150 years. The church continues to offer worship, outreach, and support to residents of all ages.For further information or to loan items for the exhibition, please contact us
We are asking for help in celebrating our 150th Birthday! have you got any old photographs or other documents that feature Saint Paul's, Monk Bretton?The first church on the site was opened in 1839, however by the 1870's it had fallen into disrepair, indeed there are suggestions that the building was never really suitable. Therefore after some intense fundraising the present building was begun with the laying of the foundation stone on July 6th 1876, by the Mayor of Barnsley, marking the beginning of a place that would become a spiritual home for generations. The church was built during a period of growth and change, serving as a beacon of hope and faith in the local area.A series of events are being planned for the week surrounding the anniversary and it is hoped to include an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia showing church activities over the past 150 years. We are asking members of the local community to have a rummage through their albums, maybe look for things are hidden in a drawer somewhere, that will show the range of activities held in or around the church, that we could borrow for a short time. The memorabilia could include original documents, letters, and artifacts that highlight the range of activities once undertaken by church members. We hope to be able to show how involved Saint Paul's Church has always been in the life of Monk Bretton.How to Participate in the Anniversary WeekThe planned exhibition is just one part of a full week of celebrations. Other activities being planned include:Special worship services reflecting on the church’s history and mission.Musical performances featuring traditional hymns and contemporary pieces.Opportunities for fellowship and refreshments in the church hall.Everyone is welcome to join, whether existing members or newcomers interested in learning more about the church’s story.Preserving History for the FutureThis 150th anniversary is not only a time to look back but also a moment to think about the future. The exhibition encourages visitors to consider how the church can continue to be a place of faith, hope, and community support.By celebrating this milestone, the church strengthens its foundation for the next 150 years and beyond.The 150th anniversary exhibition offers a rare chance to explore the rich history of a beloved church and its community. Through photographs, memorabilia, and stories, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation of the faith and dedication that have sustained this place for a century and a half.If you have anything you are willing to loan to us for display please contact us at; saintpauls150th@gmail.com
The Faith Explorers meetings scheduled for the 3rd of May and the 7th of June are being moved to the 24th of May and 21st June due to holidays. Hopefully we will still get a great turnout.
