St Sampson’s has been a Christian presence in South Hill, serving this local community for over 1000 years. It is a special place for many people. But it’s future is not guaranteed. Major work is needed to preserve the building and make it fit for worship and community use for the 21st century and beyond.The church is a Grade 1 listed medieval building, dating from 1333, the possible site of the monastery founded by St Sampson in the 6th century and Bishop Trelawny’s first parish. Objects of historical importance include the 6thC standing stone, the carved apostles on the tower, and the font, which was part of an older church on the site. Things unseen, but priceless, are the deep sense that this has been a sacred space of Christian worship for centuries, its stones soaked in worship and prayer; and the extensive family and social histories bound up in the building and its churchyard.The church is open during daylight hours for anyone to visit and it is an oasis of peace. It would be a such a shame if it was lost to future generations. Can you help?We are embarking upon a massive restoration and improvement project, ‘St Sampson’s Unlocked’. Plans include works to the roof, ceiling, tower and windows - to make the building warm and dry - and installing toilet and kitchen facilities. Without this, the building is not suitable for regular community use. Many people have said they can’t attend events because of the lack of a toilet. The amount needed for all this work is approximately £500,000.Please will you give a donation, to help keep St Sampson’s church open as a place of worship and to turn it into a viable community space for people to use? Donations big or small will all be welcome. Visit our facebook page for more information https://www.facebook.com/CRUX.cherished.restored.unlocked.church
