A 19TH CENTURY church in Bewdley, blighted by a damaged ceiling since 2019, has celebrated its full re-opening.
Plaster fell from the ceiling of All Saints’ Church in Wribbenhall seven years ago. This meant much of the nave had been closed to ensure it was safe.
Following roof repair work to stop water ingress. No further plaster falling has prompted a specialist to agree it is now safe for the nave to reopen.
It means the church can now hold wedding ceremonies again. The first couple through the doors will tie the knot next month.
Rector, Rev Mel Beynon, said: “Although the congregation managed to do some brilliant community work in only half the church, being fully open will enable the building to have a much wider range of uses – we are delighted that this is now possible.”
A number of events have already been planned throughout the year. As well as next month’s wedding, there will be a focus on All Saints’ Day in November.
Picture by James Atkinson. s
The Bishop of Worcester, Hugh Nelson, held a special service on Sunday where he blessed the church following the full reopening of the nave.
Bishop Hugh added: “The service at Wribbenhall Church was an opportunity to acknowledge and lay down all the frustrations and hard work that have happened to get to this point and leave them behind as a new chapter begins.
“It is obvious this is a church which loves music and singing and also really cares both about their church building and the local community which they serve.”
The service featured a range of music, with former choir members returning to sing and soloists and groups providing background music during the refreshments after the service.
The second reading from Matthew’s gospel was read by eight-year-old Violet Banks, age eight.
During the service, the doors to the church were symbolically flung open with the Bishop declaring: “Open the doors of this house of prayer, that all may enter and praise the Lord.”
Rev Beynon said: “Sunday’s service was a great chance to give thanks and begin to look forward with optimism and joy.”
Churchwarden and organist, Angela Cattanach-Chell, added: “It is wonderful to have the whole space back and gives our church a completely different feel.
“It’s been a difficult few years, but we’ve still managed to use the church to reach out to our community.”
