Crisis meeting at parish church

By Ken Bennett

A public consultation takes place next week to discuss the future of Saddleworth Church,  St Chad, Uppermill.

The iconic ‘cathedral of the hills’ is facing a crisis and Reverend Canon Sharon Jones, Team Rector of Saddleworth, has warned it could face closure in ten years unless one million pounds is raised to cover vital repairs.

The church lies within its own conservation area, as, together with the adjoining Hearse House and stocks, it is a grade 2* star listed building, one of only 10 percent in the entire country.

Now it is on the Historic England ‘at risk’ register, due to major issues with the roof, tower and East window.

Canon Jones said: “The church is famous for community events including  the Rushcart celebrations.

“We are embarking on plans to restore, reorder and reimagine the church for a different world to enable stronger community links and meeting community need.

“The church plans to open a coffee shop facility called ‘The Pilgrims Rest’ for lone workers, walkers, cyclists and heritage hunters, young people seeking a safe space, older people needing friendship and conversation.

“They desire to create a sacred space which has the flexibility for hosting exhibitions, wedding fairs, music and art celebrations, educational visits, historic archives.

“The public consultation is an invitation to hear the story and see the vision as the church begins a new chapter in its long Saddleworth history through partnering with businesses, voluntary organisations, healthcare professionals and educational establishments.”

The Seeing is Believing logo, the campaigns emblem, was designed Rosie Gilbin from St Chads School following an inter school competition.

“The design beautifully captures the hills, canal and beauty of our area and the centrality of God’s love for everyone,” said Canon Jones.

Last year, St Chad’s   became a welcome refuge for the die hard morris dancers and their loyal supporters after a torrential downpour.

And  for the  first time in living memory,  St Chads  invited the dancing to be held  indoors following the  Holy Communion Service attended by more than 300 people.

The surprise invitation came from Canon  Jones,  who during the service spoke of music and dance being at the very heart of God since the earliest times.

Canon Jones invites  everyone to join the conversation and attend  the Public Consultation on Tuesday,  (March 26) 7.30pm in St Chads Church.  Refreshments are provided.

More details about the meeting can be found here: cofeinsaddleworth.org.uk

Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

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