From


St Bartholomew’s Church Minor Re-ordering


For over a decade we have enjoyed the benefit of a “temporary” nave platform. This has greatly enhanced the conduct of worship. Amongst other things, it allows those preaching to stand close to the congregation; it enables children to be seen when they take part in all-age talks and activities; it allows


wedding couples to be on the same level as the Vicar when taking their vows; and it provides a stage for musicians and singers when concerts are held at St. Bart’s.


Now that the work on the Tower has been completed, the time has come to make this


temporary platform permanent. Over the past year the PCC has been discussing basic concepts and possible designs and following on from these discussions we have employed an architect to draw up a feasibility study. We have also sought the advice of the Diocesan Advisory Committee. We are now in a position to introduce the scheme to the wider church membership.


The intention is to extend the platform by running it across the width of the church so


that it links up with the chancel in the south aisle, and to enhance the platform in the main north aisle so as to accommodate a nave communion table for use in services of Holy Communion on the second and fourth Sundays. This will also involve the removal of the low chancel walls so as to give more space. The plan is for the nave platform to be finished in stone.


The scheme will be beneficial in various ways. In addition to consolidating the existing


benefits of the nave platform, it will bring the celebration of Holy Communion much closer to the whole congregation, whereas at the moment all those who sit in the south aisle cannot see the main communion table when the focus of the service shifts there for the Eucharistic Prayer. The enlarged chancel of the south aisle will allow more space for informal midweek services and also bring the music group closer to the congregation when they play at services.


In addition to the nave platform and new furniture including a communion table, a


lectern, clergy chairs and portable font, we are also planning for the provision of projection facilities, and enhanced lighting in both the north and south chancels. Thought is also being given to the possibility of new moveable choir stalls so they can be angled when needed to face more towards the nave.


The scheme may be thought of as minor re-ordering because it essentially


consolidates what we already have and the way we currently use the church in our worship services. It still preserves the overall character of St. Bartholomew’s as an historic pewed village church.


If you would like to find out more, we are holding an open meeting at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday 27th January after the main morning service.


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