Providing a place and times for peace and reflection, much needed in this busy world
Showing a light and pathway to those seeking meaning in their lives
Being a small centre of love and compassion for our community and for the whole world
Recalling through the language and music of our church traditions, the tradition and continuity of faith in our country and instilling it with fresh meaning and forms of expression for future generations
Celebrating, questioning and considering the pattern of life and nature and the joys and sorrows of our individual lives
Having a positive impact on both the natural world and wider society such that future generations can benefit from our church both spiritually and as an amenity to the community
Beliefs and principles
The church’s current context (appendix 1&2) reflects that of a small committed community for whom:
God is eternal truth and love, as revealed through Jesus Christ and as found in our souls.
We welcome people of all faiths (and none) to our church, to enjoy it and to find peace and renewal in whatsoever way they can.
We believe that the social side of the church is essential and could and should be developed along with new uses for the building, churchyard and its hall.
The Church’s renewal must come from our belief and our faith in God , through Christ and not be driven by financial necessity or a desire for continuity.
Aims
A commitment to develop a vision that involves a sustainable regeneration was made in 2018 when a group was formed.
This was driven partly by the church’s quinquennial reports that recommended key repairs to the church building. More importantly, the church’s loyal older community and village residents strongly sense the need for the Church’s continued presence and role in supporting individual’s spiritual journey, founded on our Christian principles.
To realise this vision we believe the church should be modified to allow:
Concerts and speakers/talks
Permanent and semi permit displays at the back nave
Provide a improved purpose built social area
Revitalise village spirit and create more opportunities for small events to take place.
To develop a regular ‘footfall’ of walkers bikers, riders by utilising the social area of the church for its historical rural interest and allow us to offer refreshments
To allow for ‘fresh expressions’ of worship to be developed and nurtured.
To ensure the church building is sound for future generations
To improve the church’s accessibility for all to everybody
Reduce energy consumption
Implementing our vision
Going forward these are the intentions some of which will require additional funding:
To develop a space at the rear of the church by removing pews to allow – an improved display about church history; improved details of the churchyard; to create a bigger space for exhibitions on church and historical village themes; and improve the quiet space with a better space for helpful books.
To strip insulate and retile the nave roof
To repair the external stone work
To improve the disabled access and facilities for wheel chair users
To consider installing a hearing loop system
To consider installing a sound system to facilitate concerts
To consider an alternative source of heating for shorter events
Evaluating a sustainable ecological heating system to re-instate the oil fired boiler when it comes to replacing it
To consider install a Solar PV project on the hall roof
Potential challenges and how we hope to overcome them:
Sourcing funds from charities locally, regionally and nationally; plus looking for donations from business and possible individuals.
Identifying individuals in our community and externally, who have the expertises to help, advice and manage the projects.
Implementing the vision through to its conclusion.
Being clear about the priorities so that an achievable timeline can be created.