About Us
Our very beautiful medieval church is situated at the core of the small village of Coldridge, on its hilltop site with spectacular views of the rolling Devon countryside. This geographically large parish comprises just under 400 residents, spread across the main village and two sub-hamlets (East Leigh and West Leigh), with farms and cottages dotted between.The demographic spreads across all age groups and includes farmers, professionals, tradespeople and the retired. It is a very socially active parish, with many groups, clubs and societies offering a wide range of interests and activities. It really is a very exciting place to be!
We have an enthusiastic and forward-looking PCC, which was re-constituted in 2023 with a new vision of Christian ministry and community inclusivity. Currently, there are 11 members serving on the PCC. We have also set up a number of associated Working Groups, answerable to, and in support of the Council and who bring all manner of skills and experience to our ministry. Many of these good people are not active churchgoers, but all are dedicated to making St Matthew’s a true House of God and a ministry that is an integral part of this lively community.
The church building is of some considerable historical importance, with a plethora of rare and beautiful woodwork and many fascinating items of decoration. This includes the stained-glass image of Prince Edward V, one of only two original medieval (1511) images in the world. This is now of national and international importance and, with our other ‘Yorkist’ insignia and allusions, draws in a large number of visitors from around the world.As well as reaching out into the community and inviting children and young families to become part of our ‘team’, the PCC is working hard to maintain and improve the structure and long-term weather-proofing and durability of the building, to make it a warm and welcoming community hub. Much has been spent on window restoration, re-pointing of the stonework, roof repairs and on keeping our ancient woodwork up to scratch. We have plans for further major expenditure on the tower and bells and upon the heating and lighting, making the church more environmentally sustainable, efficient and comfortable. Major fundraising is in progress to these ends.
Our basic Service Pattern is for a Lay-Led Morning Prayer on second Sundays and Holy Communion on third Sundays. In addition, we also hold occasional BCP Evensongs and a wide range of ‘family’ services, eg; ‘Family Nativity’, ‘Hymns & Pimms’ and ‘Mulled Wine & Melodies’. We also now use the church for community events, such as our highly successful ‘Jazz In The Nave’ concerts and to host half of the annual Christmas Craft Fair, shared with the Village Hall.Any member of the clergy coming to St Matthew’s can be assured of a very warm welcome and the support of a very active PCC, Congregation and Community.
John W Smith(Lay Chairman) 2025
