“It’s exciting that we’ve been able to step out in faith during lockdown. It’s not been without its setbacks, but every time we’ve had a setback God’s hand has been…
“It’s exciting that we’ve been able to step out in faith during lockdown. It’s not been without its setbacks, but every time we’ve had a setback God’s hand has been on it, he has been watching over us and has been our motivation.”
Brenda Smith is the Churchwarden at St Edward’s Church, Goathurst where they have managed during a national lockdown to raise substantial funds, carryout much needed repair work to the church roof, and clear out the bell tower ready for the removal and repair of five bells, the oldest of which dates back to 1705.
Plans for the restoration and repair work had already begun before Covid-19 arrived and a lockdown was imposed. It started when a large crack was discovered in one of the five bells meaning it would need to be lowered to the ground floor and transported to Surrey for rewelding. At the same time, it was also decided the other bells should also be checked and repaired, and the running gear overhauled; a job which could be carried out locally but would involve a large amount of work in the bell tower.
Just as the church community were preparing for this job, they were beset by another, large and costly problem when thieves stole lead from the roof leaving part of building at the mercy of the weather. It also resulted in Historic England to placing the church on the at-risk register.
Brenda says that it has at times, been an uphill struggle, but the church community has worked tirelessly to help get the church ready to welcome people once again. They’ve applied for grants from numerous organisations, and alongside this the church community have done their part in helping to raise the urgently needed funds with sponsored bike rides, and even a handbell concert. “We are extremely grateful to the help we’ve received from our community and also for the wider support and encouragement of the diocese.”
“Though our church building is small and in a rural setting, it is packed with treasures. Instead of seeing the guardianship of it as a millstone around our necks, we have begun to see it as a mission and outreach asset, allowing us to reach out to the wider community. Interest in our heritage has previously brought people into the church where they have had a welcoming and positive experience. I really think if we draw people into the building the Holy Spirit will do the rest. We just have to be faithful.”
A group of angel statues with links to kings, queens, Sir Christopher Wren and Westminster Abbey are being celebrated by a Somerset church community, two centuries after they first arrived in Somerset.
The group of 17th centaury angel statues with links to kings, queens, Sir Christopher Wren and Westminster Abbey arrived in Somerset two centuries ago.
Members of Holy Trinity Hamp in Bridgwater welcome the BBC to their church for the forthcoming harvest edition of Songs of Praise.
The Chew Valley Nature Photography Festival brought photographers, conservationists and local residents together to celebrate the biodiversity of the area and reflect on the call to care for God’s creation.
Across the country and throughout our diocese farmers are struggling to deal with the effects of the intense heat, lack of rainfall and the outbreak of the disease, bluetongue.
The service in Porlock highlighted the story of community, forgiveness and reconciliation.
The arrival of the Bride at a recent wedding at Holy Cross, Mark caused a something of stir both locally and in the national and even international press.
A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the Energy Footprint Tool (EFT) this year.
Tony O'Mara, who has overcome his own 40-year addiction, has been nominated for the BBC award for his work supporting others in the place that helped him change his life.
On the first Sunday in August, Bishop Fiona joined the South Quantock Benefice Lammas service.