major improvement scheme underway at st mary's
16th June, 2021
A much-needed improvement scheme is underway at Hull’s oldest parish church, but St Mary’s on Lowgate in the city centre is appealing for more financial support to ensure all its plans can go ahead.
The improvement scheme, costing just over £1 million, will help to secure the future of this Hull landmark, which has played a part in city life since 1333. Known as the ‘gateway to the Old Town’ and as ‘an oasis of peace in the heart of the city’, St Mary’s has been the place of worship for Hull people including the Blaydes of ‘Bounty’ fame, the Pease family, which established Yorkshire’s very first bank on High Street, and 18th Century ship owners the Halls.
Today St Mary’s is still a much-loved place of worship and plays a key role in community life by hosting three soup kitchens a week, run by Hull Homeless Outreach, attracting 70 to 90 people each evening.
The scheme will finally give St Mary’s toilets, including wheelchair access, a basic kitchen facility, heating, which it has been without for five years, and new electrics. Also, areas of dangerously uneven floor will be replaced.
Over the last decade St Mary’s has been developing and consulting over the plans and raising funds - the church does not receive funding for the building from the Church of England. However, another £70,560 is still needed to be able to complete all the work planned in this first phase of improvements and additional work costing around £600,000 will still be needed within the next ten years.
Specialist church architects Simmonsherriff LLP have been working with St Mary’s since 2009 as inspecting architects and, as project architects, to design the scheme of improvements.
Commenting, architect David Sherriff said, “The congregation has worked hard over recent decades to improve the outside of the building but works to the inside are desperately needed. This is going to dramatically improve the interior space and how it can be used for all the wonderful things they want to do with it”.
Due to St Mary’s Grade II* listing and fine medieval architecture with later George Gilbert Scott Victorian additions, a contractor with a track record of work to historic buildings was sought and, following a rigorous tendering process involving a number of firms in the region, Scothern Construction of Malton has been appointed. Over three decades Scothern has worked on churches, castles and historic buildings, including Beverley’s Guildhall, Harewood House, Duncombe Park and York’s City Walls. Scothern’s team has the Construction Skills Certification Scheme Heritage Accreditation and includes English Heritage and The National Trust amongst its clients.
Scothern’s MD Paul Scothern expects a team of around eight to be working on St Mary’s at any one time, including stone masons, electricians, plumbers, heating engineers, joiners and lime plasterers.
Paul Scothern said, “Scothern is delighted to have the opportunity to work on such a fine and ancient church as St Mary’s, which dates back to the 14th Century. St Mary’s has a fascinating history, not least as the church from which in the late 1800s Hull FC rugby league club originated, and we are proud to be playing a part in preserving and enhancing this wonderful building for future generations!”
Scothern moved onto site on Monday, June 14. The scheme is expected to be completed in January 2022. Archaeologist John Buglass has been appointed to keep a watch during work to the floor.
St Mary’s’ Priest-in-Charge Father Ian Walker said, “It is good that this essential work is now underway. The goal is to make the church a more welcoming place for worship and visitors and to provide the facilities needed to expand St Mary’s role in the social and cultural life of Hull’s Old Town.
“St Mary’s has worked hard to secure the funds needed for this major project and would like to thank the late Jean Jackson, Allchurches Trust, the National Churches Trust, the Wolfson Foundation, the Joan Tottle Trust, the Diocese of York, the Friends of St Mary’s, Myton Law and a number of individuals for their kind legacies, grants and donations without which we would not be able to embark on this work and St Mary’s would continue to be in danger of closing.
“However, if anyone in our community is able to help us by donating to the cost of these essential works, or by volunteering their time to help us open the church regularly again in 2022, we are keen to hear from them.”
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement scheme via the St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ website page.
To volunteer visit the ‘Volunteer’ page on the website.
Alternatively, contact St Mary’s on Hull 618199 or by email to info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
www.simmonsherriff.co.uk
www.scothernconst.co.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614, m. 07862 014750
email: amanda@habergham.net
Issued by:
St Mary the Virgin, Lowgate, Hull, HU1 1EJ.
A much-needed improvement scheme is underway at Hull’s oldest parish church, but St Mary’s on Lowgate in the city centre is appealing for more financial support to ensure all its plans can go ahead.
The improvement scheme, costing just over £1 million, will help to secure the future of this Hull landmark, which has played a part in city life since 1333. Known as the ‘gateway to the Old Town’ and as ‘an oasis of peace in the heart of the city’, St Mary’s has been the place of worship for Hull people including the Blaydes of ‘Bounty’ fame, the Pease family, which established Yorkshire’s very first bank on High Street, and 18th Century ship owners the Halls.
Today St Mary’s is still a much-loved place of worship and plays a key role in community life by hosting three soup kitchens a week, run by Hull Homeless Outreach, attracting 70 to 90 people each evening.
The scheme will finally give St Mary’s toilets, including wheelchair access, a basic kitchen facility, heating, which it has been without for five years, and new electrics. Also, areas of dangerously uneven floor will be replaced.
Over the last decade St Mary’s has been developing and consulting over the plans and raising funds - the church does not receive funding for the building from the Church of England. However, another £70,560 is still needed to be able to complete all the work planned in this first phase of improvements and additional work costing around £600,000 will still be needed within the next ten years.
Specialist church architects Simmonsherriff LLP have been working with St Mary’s since 2009 as inspecting architects and, as project architects, to design the scheme of improvements.
Commenting, architect David Sherriff said, “The congregation has worked hard over recent decades to improve the outside of the building but works to the inside are desperately needed. This is going to dramatically improve the interior space and how it can be used for all the wonderful things they want to do with it”.
Due to St Mary’s Grade II* listing and fine medieval architecture with later George Gilbert Scott Victorian additions, a contractor with a track record of work to historic buildings was sought and, following a rigorous tendering process involving a number of firms in the region, Scothern Construction of Malton has been appointed. Over three decades Scothern has worked on churches, castles and historic buildings, including Beverley’s Guildhall, Harewood House, Duncombe Park and York’s City Walls. Scothern’s team has the Construction Skills Certification Scheme Heritage Accreditation and includes English Heritage and The National Trust amongst its clients.
Scothern’s MD Paul Scothern expects a team of around eight to be working on St Mary’s at any one time, including stone masons, electricians, plumbers, heating engineers, joiners and lime plasterers.
Paul Scothern said, “Scothern is delighted to have the opportunity to work on such a fine and ancient church as St Mary’s, which dates back to the 14th Century. St Mary’s has a fascinating history, not least as the church from which in the late 1800s Hull FC rugby league club originated, and we are proud to be playing a part in preserving and enhancing this wonderful building for future generations!”
Scothern moved onto site on Monday, June 14. The scheme is expected to be completed in January 2022. Archaeologist John Buglass has been appointed to keep a watch during work to the floor.
St Mary’s’ Priest-in-Charge Father Ian Walker said, “It is good that this essential work is now underway. The goal is to make the church a more welcoming place for worship and visitors and to provide the facilities needed to expand St Mary’s role in the social and cultural life of Hull’s Old Town.
“St Mary’s has worked hard to secure the funds needed for this major project and would like to thank the late Jean Jackson, Allchurches Trust, the National Churches Trust, the Wolfson Foundation, the Joan Tottle Trust, the Diocese of York, the Friends of St Mary’s, Myton Law and a number of individuals for their kind legacies, grants and donations without which we would not be able to embark on this work and St Mary’s would continue to be in danger of closing.
“However, if anyone in our community is able to help us by donating to the cost of these essential works, or by volunteering their time to help us open the church regularly again in 2022, we are keen to hear from them.”
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement scheme via the St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ website page.
To volunteer visit the ‘Volunteer’ page on the website.
Alternatively, contact St Mary’s on Hull 618199 or by email to info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
www.simmonsherriff.co.uk
www.scothernconst.co.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614, m. 07862 014750
email: amanda@habergham.net
Issued by:
St Mary the Virgin, Lowgate, Hull, HU1 1EJ.
ASBESTOS REMOVAL UNDERWAY
17th, May, 2021
Preliminary work, to pave the way for St Mary's major improvement scheme, is underway with the removal of asbestos around the old, defunct heating pipes in the floor. Church fundraising has been supplemented by a £7,000 Gateway grant from the National Churches Trust to make the £20,000 asbestos work possible. The work is expected to be completed in May.
Preliminary work, to pave the way for St Mary's major improvement scheme, is underway with the removal of asbestos around the old, defunct heating pipes in the floor. Church fundraising has been supplemented by a £7,000 Gateway grant from the National Churches Trust to make the £20,000 asbestos work possible. The work is expected to be completed in May.
national churches trust and wolfson foundation grants
23/4/21
St Mary's is delighted to learn that the National Churches Trust and the Wolfson Foundation have both agreed to award grants of £10,000 towards our improvement works. Our sincere thanks go to both the Trust and the Foundation for their very welcome support. The Trust and Foundation have made the following statement:
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE NATIONAL CHURCHES TRUST
Post lockdown boost for St Mary the Virgin, Hull
A much-loved Hull church is one of 67 churches nationwide to receive a share of a £611,000 funding payout from the National Churches Trust.
A £10,000 National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grant will support plans to repair and upgrade the church including the installation of three toilets and a kitchen which will safeguard the future of St Mary’s on Lowgate in Hull and enable it to better serve its urban community.
St Mary’s also receives a £10,000 Wolfson Fabric Repair Grant from the Wolfson Foundation on the recommendation of the National Churches Trust.
Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, Vice President of The National Churches Trust, said:
“I’m delighted that St Mary the Virgin church in Hull is being helped with a £10,000 National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grant. The grant will contribute towards the cost of repairs to the floor, the installation of three toilets and a kitchen and will create a meeting room.”
“The grant will help safeguarding unique local heritage and help St Mary’s, Lowgate, continue to support local people as we begin to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive at the Wolfson Foundation, said:
“Churches play a central role in the spiritual life of a community, but they are also an integral, much loved, part of our cultural heritage. We are delighted to be working in partnership with the National Churches Trust on this important programme supporting the preservation of these remarkable and wonderful buildings.”
A total of 67 churches and chapels in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will benefit from the latest grants from the National Churches Trust, the charity supporting church buildings of all Christian denominations across the UK. £133,300 of the funding for the grants has been provided by the Wolfson Foundation.
This is the first round of grants made by the National Churches Trust in 2021. Last year the Trust has awarded, or recommended on behalf of other funders, 260 grants amounting to £1.7 million.
The church
The church is a prominent landmark in Hull’s Old Town and is first mentioned as a Chapel of Ease to the Priory at North Ferriby in 1327. The church was originally built of brick with stone dressings. However, the building we see today reflects Sir George Gilbert Scott’s 1860s restoration. He encased the brick tower in stone; encased the exterior in ashlar; added Gothic windows, an additional south aisle, new vestry, porch and reredos; and renewed the altar, pulpit and font.
In the early 20th century, Temple Moore created the Chapel of the Nativity and a fine rood screen, dramatically filling the eyeline from the west door, a memorial to Edward VII whose head is carved under the central arch.
Today its mission is to help those in need in Hull’s city centre. Volunteer organization, Hull Homeless Outreach has been running soup kitchens at St Mary’s for a number of years on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, serving between 70 and 90 people, and more recently another team has joined them to provide hot food on Fridays.
The project
St Mary’s, Lowgate, has been fundraising for a number of years to raise over £988,000 needed to undertake essential works. The £10,000 grant from the National Churches Trust and £10,000 from the Wolfson Foundation will contribute towards this scheme of work to include repairs to floor, installing three toilets in southeast corner, a kitchen in the south aisle vestry, creating a meeting room, installing new heating system and electrical work.
However, St Mary’s still requires additional funds of around £60,000 to fulfill its current plans and is appealing to businesses and individual donors for help. Details of how to make a donation can be found on the church’s website.
Hilary Newton and Olga Li La-Vigars churchwardens at St Mary’s said:
“We are immensely grateful to the National Churches Trust and the Wolfson Foundation and for the work everyone involved in fundraising has put in. We are proud of the role both the church and her past and present members have played in the rich history of Hull. We are so close to reaching the funds for the first stage of work, enabling our church to continue her contribution to the community, well into the 21st century and beyond. We welcome any interest or offers of help in raising the funds to keep this beautiful, central building open and available to all.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
About the National Churches Trust
The National Churches Trust is the leading national independent charity concerned with the protection and welfare of churches, chapels and meeting houses throughout the United Kingdom. We aim to:
a) Provide grants for the repair, maintenance and modernisation of church buildings
b) Act as a catalyst to improve and bring more resources to the management of church buildings
c) Promote the value of church buildings to the community at large
For more information visit www.nationalchurchestrust.org
PRESS CONTACT
Eddie Tulasiewicz 07742 932278 020 7227 1936 eddie@nationalchurchestrust.org
About the Wolfson Foundation
The Wolfson Foundation is an independent charity with a focus on research and education. Its aim is to support civil society by investing in excellent projects in science, health, heritage, humanities and the arts.
Since it was established in 1955, some £1 billion (£2 billion in real terms) has been awarded to more than 14,000 projects throughout the UK, all on the basis of expert review.
Website: www.wolfsonfoundation.org.uk
Twitter: @wolfsonfdn
Wolfson Fabric Repairs Grants Programme.
Wolfson Fabric Repairs Grants are made on behalf of the Wolfson Foundation by the National Churches Trust. The aim of the programme is to support the conservation and restoration of places of worship with outstanding historic and architectural significance. Churches can apply for the grants of up to £10,000 to support repairs to the fabric of their buildings such as roof repairs, masonry repairs, rainwaters disposal and drainage and floorwork.
For more information visit www.nationalchurchestrust.org/our-grants/wolfson-grants
St Mary's is delighted to learn that the National Churches Trust and the Wolfson Foundation have both agreed to award grants of £10,000 towards our improvement works. Our sincere thanks go to both the Trust and the Foundation for their very welcome support. The Trust and Foundation have made the following statement:
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE NATIONAL CHURCHES TRUST
Post lockdown boost for St Mary the Virgin, Hull
A much-loved Hull church is one of 67 churches nationwide to receive a share of a £611,000 funding payout from the National Churches Trust.
A £10,000 National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grant will support plans to repair and upgrade the church including the installation of three toilets and a kitchen which will safeguard the future of St Mary’s on Lowgate in Hull and enable it to better serve its urban community.
St Mary’s also receives a £10,000 Wolfson Fabric Repair Grant from the Wolfson Foundation on the recommendation of the National Churches Trust.
Broadcaster and journalist Huw Edwards, Vice President of The National Churches Trust, said:
“I’m delighted that St Mary the Virgin church in Hull is being helped with a £10,000 National Churches Trust Cornerstone Grant. The grant will contribute towards the cost of repairs to the floor, the installation of three toilets and a kitchen and will create a meeting room.”
“The grant will help safeguarding unique local heritage and help St Mary’s, Lowgate, continue to support local people as we begin to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive at the Wolfson Foundation, said:
“Churches play a central role in the spiritual life of a community, but they are also an integral, much loved, part of our cultural heritage. We are delighted to be working in partnership with the National Churches Trust on this important programme supporting the preservation of these remarkable and wonderful buildings.”
A total of 67 churches and chapels in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will benefit from the latest grants from the National Churches Trust, the charity supporting church buildings of all Christian denominations across the UK. £133,300 of the funding for the grants has been provided by the Wolfson Foundation.
This is the first round of grants made by the National Churches Trust in 2021. Last year the Trust has awarded, or recommended on behalf of other funders, 260 grants amounting to £1.7 million.
The church
The church is a prominent landmark in Hull’s Old Town and is first mentioned as a Chapel of Ease to the Priory at North Ferriby in 1327. The church was originally built of brick with stone dressings. However, the building we see today reflects Sir George Gilbert Scott’s 1860s restoration. He encased the brick tower in stone; encased the exterior in ashlar; added Gothic windows, an additional south aisle, new vestry, porch and reredos; and renewed the altar, pulpit and font.
In the early 20th century, Temple Moore created the Chapel of the Nativity and a fine rood screen, dramatically filling the eyeline from the west door, a memorial to Edward VII whose head is carved under the central arch.
Today its mission is to help those in need in Hull’s city centre. Volunteer organization, Hull Homeless Outreach has been running soup kitchens at St Mary’s for a number of years on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, serving between 70 and 90 people, and more recently another team has joined them to provide hot food on Fridays.
The project
St Mary’s, Lowgate, has been fundraising for a number of years to raise over £988,000 needed to undertake essential works. The £10,000 grant from the National Churches Trust and £10,000 from the Wolfson Foundation will contribute towards this scheme of work to include repairs to floor, installing three toilets in southeast corner, a kitchen in the south aisle vestry, creating a meeting room, installing new heating system and electrical work.
However, St Mary’s still requires additional funds of around £60,000 to fulfill its current plans and is appealing to businesses and individual donors for help. Details of how to make a donation can be found on the church’s website.
Hilary Newton and Olga Li La-Vigars churchwardens at St Mary’s said:
“We are immensely grateful to the National Churches Trust and the Wolfson Foundation and for the work everyone involved in fundraising has put in. We are proud of the role both the church and her past and present members have played in the rich history of Hull. We are so close to reaching the funds for the first stage of work, enabling our church to continue her contribution to the community, well into the 21st century and beyond. We welcome any interest or offers of help in raising the funds to keep this beautiful, central building open and available to all.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
About the National Churches Trust
The National Churches Trust is the leading national independent charity concerned with the protection and welfare of churches, chapels and meeting houses throughout the United Kingdom. We aim to:
a) Provide grants for the repair, maintenance and modernisation of church buildings
b) Act as a catalyst to improve and bring more resources to the management of church buildings
c) Promote the value of church buildings to the community at large
For more information visit www.nationalchurchestrust.org
PRESS CONTACT
Eddie Tulasiewicz 07742 932278 020 7227 1936 eddie@nationalchurchestrust.org
About the Wolfson Foundation
The Wolfson Foundation is an independent charity with a focus on research and education. Its aim is to support civil society by investing in excellent projects in science, health, heritage, humanities and the arts.
Since it was established in 1955, some £1 billion (£2 billion in real terms) has been awarded to more than 14,000 projects throughout the UK, all on the basis of expert review.
Website: www.wolfsonfoundation.org.uk
Twitter: @wolfsonfdn
Wolfson Fabric Repairs Grants Programme.
Wolfson Fabric Repairs Grants are made on behalf of the Wolfson Foundation by the National Churches Trust. The aim of the programme is to support the conservation and restoration of places of worship with outstanding historic and architectural significance. Churches can apply for the grants of up to £10,000 to support repairs to the fabric of their buildings such as roof repairs, masonry repairs, rainwaters disposal and drainage and floorwork.
For more information visit www.nationalchurchestrust.org/our-grants/wolfson-grants
st mary's receives donation from myton law
22nd, March, 2021
Hull law firm Myton Law has made a donation towards essential improvements at St Mary's.
With their maritime law expertise, specialist shipping, rail and logistics lawyers Myton Law were pleased to support St Mary’s, which houses monuments to Hull’s historic maritime pioneers.
St Mary’s has been fundraising for several years for desperately needed interior work to ensure the church can stay open. Known as an ‘Oasis of Peace at the Heart of Our City’, St Mary’s is without heating, toilets and kitchen facilities and needs new electrics and a new floor. Despite that, it is home to a dedicated congregation and choir and to three soup kitchens a week operated by volunteers Hull Homeless Outreach.
Caption - John Habergham of Myton Law
News of the £500 donation from Myton Law will, St Mary’s hope, awaken other Hull businesses to the need for financial support if this architectural gem is to make itself fit to continue as a place for worship, community use and visitors.
In the spirit of the ship builders & owners and international merchants who once attended St Mary’s, today Myton Law works for clients in the shipping sector across the world. Its offices on Nelson Street overlooking Hull’s Victoria Pier stand on earth excavated when Humber Dock was created and were first occupied by Westerdale’s, a mast, block and pump manufacturers. Later, during the 20th Century Hull Associated Tug Owners, which became United Towing, were based there sending tugs across the world.
St Mary’s hopes to start work on its major improvement scheme, which will cost over £1 million, in May. It has secured a generous legacy and grants from Allchurches Trust, an unnamed Trust established in the name of an internationally successful Hull-born businessman, the Diocese of York, the Joan Tottle Trust and the National Churches Trust.
However, St Mary’s, which does not receive any direct financial support for the building from the Church of England, is currently £79,484 short of its target for the first phase of works and is calling on individuals and businesses in the Hull area for donations.
St Mary’s Priest-in-Charge Father Ian Walker said, “We are very grateful for Myton Law’s generosity which will help to ensure the continuing of St Mary’s ministry to the city and to the Old Town in particular. We hope that other Hull companies and entrepreneurs might be willing to follow Myton Law’s example.”
Commenting on Myton Law’s donation, director John Habergham said, “We are a relatively small, but niche law firm very much with our roots in Hull, but, like the city itself, with an international outlook.
“If you visit St Mary’s you will see many prominent names associated with Hull’s shipping past, such as Benjamin Blaydes, who it is believed built the Bounty, and Thomas Wilson, founder of the Wilson Line. Other fine monuments are linked to Hull’s importance as a major port, such as that to 19th Century Chairman of Hull Dock Company Joseph Robinson Pease, and to Hull’s anti-slavery movement, with a memorial to the Thorntons who were related to Wilberforce.
“It is good to be able to support this improvement work and to know that this corner of Hull’s maritime past will be saved and that St Mary’s can continue to help those in need in the city for years to come.”
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement project online via the St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ page. Alternatively, you can pay by cheque using a donation form . The form can also be obtained by post by calling St Mary’s on Hull 618199.
www.mytonlaw.co.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614
Issued on behalf of: St Mary the Virgin, Lowgate, Hull, HU1 1EJ.
Hull law firm Myton Law has made a donation towards essential improvements at St Mary's.
With their maritime law expertise, specialist shipping, rail and logistics lawyers Myton Law were pleased to support St Mary’s, which houses monuments to Hull’s historic maritime pioneers.
St Mary’s has been fundraising for several years for desperately needed interior work to ensure the church can stay open. Known as an ‘Oasis of Peace at the Heart of Our City’, St Mary’s is without heating, toilets and kitchen facilities and needs new electrics and a new floor. Despite that, it is home to a dedicated congregation and choir and to three soup kitchens a week operated by volunteers Hull Homeless Outreach.
Caption - John Habergham of Myton Law
News of the £500 donation from Myton Law will, St Mary’s hope, awaken other Hull businesses to the need for financial support if this architectural gem is to make itself fit to continue as a place for worship, community use and visitors.
In the spirit of the ship builders & owners and international merchants who once attended St Mary’s, today Myton Law works for clients in the shipping sector across the world. Its offices on Nelson Street overlooking Hull’s Victoria Pier stand on earth excavated when Humber Dock was created and were first occupied by Westerdale’s, a mast, block and pump manufacturers. Later, during the 20th Century Hull Associated Tug Owners, which became United Towing, were based there sending tugs across the world.
St Mary’s hopes to start work on its major improvement scheme, which will cost over £1 million, in May. It has secured a generous legacy and grants from Allchurches Trust, an unnamed Trust established in the name of an internationally successful Hull-born businessman, the Diocese of York, the Joan Tottle Trust and the National Churches Trust.
However, St Mary’s, which does not receive any direct financial support for the building from the Church of England, is currently £79,484 short of its target for the first phase of works and is calling on individuals and businesses in the Hull area for donations.
St Mary’s Priest-in-Charge Father Ian Walker said, “We are very grateful for Myton Law’s generosity which will help to ensure the continuing of St Mary’s ministry to the city and to the Old Town in particular. We hope that other Hull companies and entrepreneurs might be willing to follow Myton Law’s example.”
Commenting on Myton Law’s donation, director John Habergham said, “We are a relatively small, but niche law firm very much with our roots in Hull, but, like the city itself, with an international outlook.
“If you visit St Mary’s you will see many prominent names associated with Hull’s shipping past, such as Benjamin Blaydes, who it is believed built the Bounty, and Thomas Wilson, founder of the Wilson Line. Other fine monuments are linked to Hull’s importance as a major port, such as that to 19th Century Chairman of Hull Dock Company Joseph Robinson Pease, and to Hull’s anti-slavery movement, with a memorial to the Thorntons who were related to Wilberforce.
“It is good to be able to support this improvement work and to know that this corner of Hull’s maritime past will be saved and that St Mary’s can continue to help those in need in the city for years to come.”
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement project online via the St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ page. Alternatively, you can pay by cheque using a donation form . The form can also be obtained by post by calling St Mary’s on Hull 618199.
www.mytonlaw.co.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614
Issued on behalf of: St Mary the Virgin, Lowgate, Hull, HU1 1EJ.
MEMORIES OF ST MARY'S SCOUT GROUP
2nd March, 2021
A new book published by Hull-born, former RAF Bomber Command Air Gunner Fred Brown features his time as a young scout at St Mary's in the 1930s please information below.
If you have any memories of St Mary's Scout Group we would appreciate hearing from you? You can email St Mary's at info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
Dear St Mary's,
Your parishioners may be interested in my father’s story about the Second World War which has been published on Amazon.
Dad grew up in Hull and the street where he was born in 1922 (Spyvee Street) was heavily bombed. Later he lived in Ellerby Close, Preston Road. He writes of his feelings as the day the war began approached and of cycling all over the East Riding on Sundays.
He emigrated to Adelaide, South Australia in 1965 and wrote the book after he retired. Much of it is based on the diary he kept during the war.
Best wishes
Jane (Cutler) Fred’s daughter in the UK
Excerpts from Fred Brown’s book:
“ EARLY DAYS
My journey had begun long ago, way back in 39, or even before. I had decided to join the RAF as soon as I was 18, the decision I had taken long before the war started. The sight of Whitley bombers at RAF Leconfield excited me, I wanted to be part of it.
Sunday September 3rd, being the first Sunday in the month, was a uniform church parade for The St Mary’s Lowgate Scout Group. The service finished about 10.15 am, instead of the usual get together after the service, T.L. Witty, the Group Scout Leader, a solicitor known to all as T.L. instructed us all to go home and listen to the wireless. He told us the Prime Minister was to make a statement at 11 am.
For almost a year, in fact ever since Mr. Chamberlain had returned from Munich waving his piece of paper saying ‘Peace in our time’ T.L. had been instructing the Rovers and senior scouts the rudiments of Air Raid Precautions, (ARP), gas drill, messenger duties, weekend winter camps and long hikes, all to prepare the group for a war which T.L. believed was inevitable T.L. instructed all Rover scouts to report to the ARP depot on Summergangs Rd at 2 pm."
And a couple of pages later:
“Most of the rover scouts were now in the forces, our first casualty occurred in the Dunkirk evacuation. Four rover scouts were killed in action during the war, there’s a memorial to them in St. Mary’s Lowgate. Two aircrew, one in tanks, the other in the Navy. All good friends.”
Book synopsis:
As the teenage Fred Brown scanned the Yorkshire skies, he was excited by the sight of Whitley bombers from RAF Leconfield. The planes ignited his ambition to join the RAF many years before the start of the Second World War. Little did he realise the consequences of this childhood dream! Parachuting from a blazing Lancaster over Belgium, Fred landed in a field in Limal and spent a month in hiding, thanks to kindness of Belgians who risked their lives to help RAF crews. Finally captured by the Gestapo, Fred graphically describes life as a Prisoner of War and The Long March back home during which many perished.
Fred emigrated to Australia in 1965 and, when he retired, he spent time tracing Guy, his wife, Raymonde and his sister, Denise, the Belgian farmers who rescued him. He was so relieved that they had not been discovered by the Gestapo.
Fred describes his poignant return to Belgium in 1988 to thank this family who discovered him injured, and hiding in a hayloft.
Available only on Amazon just Google: Amazon Get Fell In ! Fred Brown
Paperback £9.95 Kindle £4.95
A new book published by Hull-born, former RAF Bomber Command Air Gunner Fred Brown features his time as a young scout at St Mary's in the 1930s please information below.
If you have any memories of St Mary's Scout Group we would appreciate hearing from you? You can email St Mary's at info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
Dear St Mary's,
Your parishioners may be interested in my father’s story about the Second World War which has been published on Amazon.
Dad grew up in Hull and the street where he was born in 1922 (Spyvee Street) was heavily bombed. Later he lived in Ellerby Close, Preston Road. He writes of his feelings as the day the war began approached and of cycling all over the East Riding on Sundays.
He emigrated to Adelaide, South Australia in 1965 and wrote the book after he retired. Much of it is based on the diary he kept during the war.
Best wishes
Jane (Cutler) Fred’s daughter in the UK
Excerpts from Fred Brown’s book:
“ EARLY DAYS
My journey had begun long ago, way back in 39, or even before. I had decided to join the RAF as soon as I was 18, the decision I had taken long before the war started. The sight of Whitley bombers at RAF Leconfield excited me, I wanted to be part of it.
Sunday September 3rd, being the first Sunday in the month, was a uniform church parade for The St Mary’s Lowgate Scout Group. The service finished about 10.15 am, instead of the usual get together after the service, T.L. Witty, the Group Scout Leader, a solicitor known to all as T.L. instructed us all to go home and listen to the wireless. He told us the Prime Minister was to make a statement at 11 am.
For almost a year, in fact ever since Mr. Chamberlain had returned from Munich waving his piece of paper saying ‘Peace in our time’ T.L. had been instructing the Rovers and senior scouts the rudiments of Air Raid Precautions, (ARP), gas drill, messenger duties, weekend winter camps and long hikes, all to prepare the group for a war which T.L. believed was inevitable T.L. instructed all Rover scouts to report to the ARP depot on Summergangs Rd at 2 pm."
And a couple of pages later:
“Most of the rover scouts were now in the forces, our first casualty occurred in the Dunkirk evacuation. Four rover scouts were killed in action during the war, there’s a memorial to them in St. Mary’s Lowgate. Two aircrew, one in tanks, the other in the Navy. All good friends.”
Book synopsis:
As the teenage Fred Brown scanned the Yorkshire skies, he was excited by the sight of Whitley bombers from RAF Leconfield. The planes ignited his ambition to join the RAF many years before the start of the Second World War. Little did he realise the consequences of this childhood dream! Parachuting from a blazing Lancaster over Belgium, Fred landed in a field in Limal and spent a month in hiding, thanks to kindness of Belgians who risked their lives to help RAF crews. Finally captured by the Gestapo, Fred graphically describes life as a Prisoner of War and The Long March back home during which many perished.
Fred emigrated to Australia in 1965 and, when he retired, he spent time tracing Guy, his wife, Raymonde and his sister, Denise, the Belgian farmers who rescued him. He was so relieved that they had not been discovered by the Gestapo.
Fred describes his poignant return to Belgium in 1988 to thank this family who discovered him injured, and hiding in a hayloft.
Available only on Amazon just Google: Amazon Get Fell In ! Fred Brown
Paperback £9.95 Kindle £4.95
further grant boost for st mary's
St Mary’s has been awarded a grant of £23,350 by Allchurches Trust.
One of Hull’s two oldest church and known as ‘an oasis of peace in the heart of Hull’ and as the city’s ‘hidden gem’, St Mary’s, diagonally opposite the Guildhall, has a small but committed congregation and hosts Hull Homeless Outreach’s soup kitchens, which regularly feed 60 to 90 people.
The grant from Allchurches Trust follows the award of a £7,000 Gateway grant by the National Churches Trust, but still leaves us around £75,000 short of the amount needed for vital work to keep this grade II* listed church, which dates back before 1333, open.
St Mary’s desperately needs significant improvements. Allchurches Trust’s support means that plans for a scheme of works, ‘Making St Mary’s Fit For Our Communities’, including installing toilets, kitchen facilities, heating, new electrics, a meeting/counselling room and a new level floor, are one step closer to fruition.
Allchurches Trust is one of the UK’s largest grant-making charities and gave £17.8 million to churches, charities and communities in 2019. Its funds come from its ownership of Ecclesiastical Insurance Group.
Commenting on the grant for St Mary’s, Allchurches Trust grants officer Usman Saeed, said: “These improvements will ensure that St Mary’s can remain at the heart of its community, enhancing the support it can provide and making this heritage treasure more accessible to all.”
Father Ian Walker, who joined St Mary’s as Priest-in-Charge on November 1, 2020, said, “All at St Mary’s wish to thank Allchurches Trust for this tremendous boost. We value highly the Trust’s support, which brings us very close to having all the funds in place to embark on the first phase of interior improvement works to make St Mary’s a safer and more welcoming place for worshippers, community users and visitors.”
St Mary’s already has the required approvals in place for the plans, but is calling on Hull businesses and individuals in a position to help by donating towards the cost of the work to support the scheme. St Mary’s does not receive any funding from the Church of England for running costs, repairs or improvements.
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement project online via St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ page –here is a live link to the page. Alternatively, you can contact us by phone on Hull 618199 or by email to info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
Currently, services at St Mary’s are suspended because of the virus pandemic. However, the church is open for private prayer and reflection on Saturdays between 11am and 1pm. Masks are required and other safety measures are in place.
www.allchurches.co.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614, m. 07968 746090
email: amanda@habergham.net
Notes
About Allchurches Trust:
Allchurches Trust is one of the UK’s largest grant-making charities. Its grants further its charitable objectives of promoting the Christian faith and other charitable causes. The Trust welcomes applications from all parts of the UK and Ireland, particularly from areas of social and economic deprivation. The Trust funds projects that tackle homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. It also supports the repair, restoration and wider community use of churches and cathedrals of all denominations. Follow Allchurches Trust on Facebook @AllchurchesTrust and Twitter @AllchurchesT or visit our website: www.allchurches.co.uk/ for more information.
One of Hull’s two oldest church and known as ‘an oasis of peace in the heart of Hull’ and as the city’s ‘hidden gem’, St Mary’s, diagonally opposite the Guildhall, has a small but committed congregation and hosts Hull Homeless Outreach’s soup kitchens, which regularly feed 60 to 90 people.
The grant from Allchurches Trust follows the award of a £7,000 Gateway grant by the National Churches Trust, but still leaves us around £75,000 short of the amount needed for vital work to keep this grade II* listed church, which dates back before 1333, open.
St Mary’s desperately needs significant improvements. Allchurches Trust’s support means that plans for a scheme of works, ‘Making St Mary’s Fit For Our Communities’, including installing toilets, kitchen facilities, heating, new electrics, a meeting/counselling room and a new level floor, are one step closer to fruition.
Allchurches Trust is one of the UK’s largest grant-making charities and gave £17.8 million to churches, charities and communities in 2019. Its funds come from its ownership of Ecclesiastical Insurance Group.
Commenting on the grant for St Mary’s, Allchurches Trust grants officer Usman Saeed, said: “These improvements will ensure that St Mary’s can remain at the heart of its community, enhancing the support it can provide and making this heritage treasure more accessible to all.”
Father Ian Walker, who joined St Mary’s as Priest-in-Charge on November 1, 2020, said, “All at St Mary’s wish to thank Allchurches Trust for this tremendous boost. We value highly the Trust’s support, which brings us very close to having all the funds in place to embark on the first phase of interior improvement works to make St Mary’s a safer and more welcoming place for worshippers, community users and visitors.”
St Mary’s already has the required approvals in place for the plans, but is calling on Hull businesses and individuals in a position to help by donating towards the cost of the work to support the scheme. St Mary’s does not receive any funding from the Church of England for running costs, repairs or improvements.
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement project online via St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ page –here is a live link to the page. Alternatively, you can contact us by phone on Hull 618199 or by email to info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
Currently, services at St Mary’s are suspended because of the virus pandemic. However, the church is open for private prayer and reflection on Saturdays between 11am and 1pm. Masks are required and other safety measures are in place.
www.allchurches.co.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614, m. 07968 746090
email: amanda@habergham.net
Notes
About Allchurches Trust:
Allchurches Trust is one of the UK’s largest grant-making charities. Its grants further its charitable objectives of promoting the Christian faith and other charitable causes. The Trust welcomes applications from all parts of the UK and Ireland, particularly from areas of social and economic deprivation. The Trust funds projects that tackle homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. It also supports the repair, restoration and wider community use of churches and cathedrals of all denominations. Follow Allchurches Trust on Facebook @AllchurchesTrust and Twitter @AllchurchesT or visit our website: www.allchurches.co.uk/ for more information.
gordon robinson
7th December, 1929 - 16th December, 2020.
Organist and Choirmaster 1970s - 2017
It is with deepest regret that we announce the death of our dear friend Gordon Robinson, St Mary's' Organist and Choirmaster from the 1970s to 2017. Gordon's funeral took place at St Mary's on 6th January, 2021. Our prayers, thoughts and condolences are with Gordon's family and friends at this extremely sad time.
Eulogy by Andrew Robinson and Helga Penny
Gordon was born on 7th December 1929 in Bradford, the only child of Sam Robinson and Lily Murgatroyd. Sam was a self-employed plumber.
He attended Ryan Street School where he would occasionally get up to mischief; he even managed to get his arm stuck between two heating pipes and had to be freed by the Fire Brigade!
A very bright child, Gordon was awarded a scholarship to Bradford Grammar School. He still had his impish streak …….. on one memorable occasion he lifted all the desk lids in the classroom and ran up and down slamming them shut one after the other. He was caught in the act……it didn’t end well!
As a boy he loved going to Scouts. In fact the Scoutmaster, Arnold Barraclough, was to be Best Man at his wedding and became a lifelong friend. Around this time Gordon cycled from Yorkshire up to one of the early Edinburgh Festivals with another great friend John Lishman.
He gained entry to Leeds Medical School in 1948, commuting there by tram from the family home in Odsal. In his spare time he played the piano and had organ lessons with Mr Wright at Dirkhill Methodist Church.
His keyboard skills were impressive and he was held in high regard by the Bradford Orpheus Male Voice Choir.
After qualifying as a doctor in 1954 house jobs followed, and it was whilst working at St Luke’s Hospital that he and Cynthia met and fell in love. They both attended the Youth Fellowship Holy Trinity Church, Low Moor. They were married on New Year’s Day in 1955. There followed 2 years’ National Service as Surgeon Lieutenant for the naval reserve in Derry, Northern Ireland.
The next move was to Wakefield in 1957 where Gordon became a GP and Cynthia worked at Snapefield Fever Hospital caring for patients with TB.
In 1959 they made the decision to move to East Yorkshire so that Gordon could join his dear friend George Parker in general practice at the Albany Street surgery on Spring Bank West. It also gave him the chance to catch up with another close friend from medical school, Stan Noble, who was already living in Hull. Gordon was much loved by his patients and colleagues alike, providing exemplary care until his reluctant retirement at the age of 70 in 1999.
Initially renting a flat in the Avenues, Cynthia and Gordon soon bought their first house on Inglemire Lane. Along came Helga and Andrew and then a move to what would become the ‘family home’ on Swanland Road in Hessle. He could also turn his hand to DIY and managed to rewire the entire house.
Gordon loved Hull and the surrounding area. They had many hobbies and pastimes – singing in the Bach Choir, attending concerts, the ‘Lit and Phil’ society, playing tennis and hill walking to name but a few.
Faith played a very important part in their lives. They discovered this beautiful old church soon after arriving in Hull, and have attended virtually every week since. Sadly the Covid pandemic has prevented their weekly visits since March; dad would ask Helga every week when would they be able to go again. They supported the church financially behind the scenes as well as being an integral part of the choir, planning services, and playing the organ.
Gordon had an encyclopaedic general knowledge which never ceased to amaze us all, especially of classical music and literature. He was very good at crosswords, and right to the end was winning the weekly quiz at the care home!
Another passion was, of course, Hull City AFC. He was a season ticket holder from 1970 until 2017, and found it hilarious that his last ever home game vs Spurs in the Premier League in 2017 ended in a 7-1 defeat!!
He had a wicked sense of humour and enjoyed regaling us all with his endless supply of jokes and amusing anecdotes.
In 2004 the Swanland Road house was sold and a new chapter started with a move to a bungalow on South Lane, opposite Helga and family. We all had many happy times there, going for walks on the foreshore, family meals, and admiring the beautiful garden.
In 2018 Cynthia and Gordon decided they were ready for 24 hour residential care and moved into St Mary’s Care Centre in Anlaby, making life much easier for Cynthia. Here they enjoyed the various activities on offer – even winning the carpet bowls cup as part of the St Mary’s team.
Gordon was a gentle, humourous, talented and incredibly generous man who made friends easily wherever he went, as we know from the many kind messages we have received. We all looked forward to seeing him and being in his company – it was always such fun. He always had wise words and good advice, encouraging his children and grandchildren with everything they wanted to do. Being unable to see him properly since March has been extremely difficult for everybody.
It is a real privilege for me to be his son. He has been such a fantastic dad to me and Helga, a brilliant grandpa to all his grandchildren, a fascinating great grandpa to Esther, and a loving and devoted husband to Cynthia.
We loved him so much. We will all miss you terribly dad. God bless you and rest in peace.
Organist and Choirmaster 1970s - 2017
It is with deepest regret that we announce the death of our dear friend Gordon Robinson, St Mary's' Organist and Choirmaster from the 1970s to 2017. Gordon's funeral took place at St Mary's on 6th January, 2021. Our prayers, thoughts and condolences are with Gordon's family and friends at this extremely sad time.
Eulogy by Andrew Robinson and Helga Penny
Gordon was born on 7th December 1929 in Bradford, the only child of Sam Robinson and Lily Murgatroyd. Sam was a self-employed plumber.
He attended Ryan Street School where he would occasionally get up to mischief; he even managed to get his arm stuck between two heating pipes and had to be freed by the Fire Brigade!
A very bright child, Gordon was awarded a scholarship to Bradford Grammar School. He still had his impish streak …….. on one memorable occasion he lifted all the desk lids in the classroom and ran up and down slamming them shut one after the other. He was caught in the act……it didn’t end well!
As a boy he loved going to Scouts. In fact the Scoutmaster, Arnold Barraclough, was to be Best Man at his wedding and became a lifelong friend. Around this time Gordon cycled from Yorkshire up to one of the early Edinburgh Festivals with another great friend John Lishman.
He gained entry to Leeds Medical School in 1948, commuting there by tram from the family home in Odsal. In his spare time he played the piano and had organ lessons with Mr Wright at Dirkhill Methodist Church.
His keyboard skills were impressive and he was held in high regard by the Bradford Orpheus Male Voice Choir.
After qualifying as a doctor in 1954 house jobs followed, and it was whilst working at St Luke’s Hospital that he and Cynthia met and fell in love. They both attended the Youth Fellowship Holy Trinity Church, Low Moor. They were married on New Year’s Day in 1955. There followed 2 years’ National Service as Surgeon Lieutenant for the naval reserve in Derry, Northern Ireland.
The next move was to Wakefield in 1957 where Gordon became a GP and Cynthia worked at Snapefield Fever Hospital caring for patients with TB.
In 1959 they made the decision to move to East Yorkshire so that Gordon could join his dear friend George Parker in general practice at the Albany Street surgery on Spring Bank West. It also gave him the chance to catch up with another close friend from medical school, Stan Noble, who was already living in Hull. Gordon was much loved by his patients and colleagues alike, providing exemplary care until his reluctant retirement at the age of 70 in 1999.
Initially renting a flat in the Avenues, Cynthia and Gordon soon bought their first house on Inglemire Lane. Along came Helga and Andrew and then a move to what would become the ‘family home’ on Swanland Road in Hessle. He could also turn his hand to DIY and managed to rewire the entire house.
Gordon loved Hull and the surrounding area. They had many hobbies and pastimes – singing in the Bach Choir, attending concerts, the ‘Lit and Phil’ society, playing tennis and hill walking to name but a few.
Faith played a very important part in their lives. They discovered this beautiful old church soon after arriving in Hull, and have attended virtually every week since. Sadly the Covid pandemic has prevented their weekly visits since March; dad would ask Helga every week when would they be able to go again. They supported the church financially behind the scenes as well as being an integral part of the choir, planning services, and playing the organ.
Gordon had an encyclopaedic general knowledge which never ceased to amaze us all, especially of classical music and literature. He was very good at crosswords, and right to the end was winning the weekly quiz at the care home!
Another passion was, of course, Hull City AFC. He was a season ticket holder from 1970 until 2017, and found it hilarious that his last ever home game vs Spurs in the Premier League in 2017 ended in a 7-1 defeat!!
He had a wicked sense of humour and enjoyed regaling us all with his endless supply of jokes and amusing anecdotes.
In 2004 the Swanland Road house was sold and a new chapter started with a move to a bungalow on South Lane, opposite Helga and family. We all had many happy times there, going for walks on the foreshore, family meals, and admiring the beautiful garden.
In 2018 Cynthia and Gordon decided they were ready for 24 hour residential care and moved into St Mary’s Care Centre in Anlaby, making life much easier for Cynthia. Here they enjoyed the various activities on offer – even winning the carpet bowls cup as part of the St Mary’s team.
Gordon was a gentle, humourous, talented and incredibly generous man who made friends easily wherever he went, as we know from the many kind messages we have received. We all looked forward to seeing him and being in his company – it was always such fun. He always had wise words and good advice, encouraging his children and grandchildren with everything they wanted to do. Being unable to see him properly since March has been extremely difficult for everybody.
It is a real privilege for me to be his son. He has been such a fantastic dad to me and Helga, a brilliant grandpa to all his grandchildren, a fascinating great grandpa to Esther, and a loving and devoted husband to Cynthia.
We loved him so much. We will all miss you terribly dad. God bless you and rest in peace.
NATIONAL CHURCHES TRUST AWARDS ST MARY'S A GATEWAY GRANT
7th January, 2021
We are a step closer to reaching our target for our major £1 million improvement project following the award of a £7,000 ‘Gateway Grant’ by the National Churches Trust.
However, St Mary’s, which dates back before 1333 and sits at the heart of Hull’s Old Town, still needs to find another £97,700 to fund the first phase of the improvement project, which is to include toilets, kitchen facilities, a new stone-paved floor, heating, electrics and a counselling/meeting room.
The National Churches Trust Gateway Grant of £7,000 is towards vital initial site preparation work to remove asbestos and old decayed heating pipes below St Mary’s’ floor at a cost of £20,200 excluding VAT. It is hoped this will take place early in 2021.
St Mary’s is home to three soup kitchens a week provided by volunteers Hull Homeless Outreach on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Normally church services are held on Fridays and Sundays and the church is open for visitors on Thursdays and Fridays, but services and openings have been affected by Covid-19 restrictions. During the pandemic St Mary’s has been open for private prayer and reflection on Saturdays between 11am and 1pm when permitted.
St Mary’s has a strong musical tradition, and the project will enable the church to be used for a variety of concerts and other events.
St Mary’s’ interior has been in a very poor state for some years. In November we received approval from the Diocese of York’s Consistory Court for our improvement plans.
Commenting on the grant news, St Mary’s’ Priest-in-Charge Father Ian Walker, who joined St Mary’s on November 1, said, “This is welcome news for St Mary’s and we are very grateful to the National Churches Trust. This grant brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of making the church a more welcoming place for worship, visitors and expanding our role in the social and cultural life of Hull’s Old Town.
“We have made a number of other grant applications and await the outcomes. However, if anyone in our community is able to help us, either by donating to the cost of these essential works or by volunteering their time to help us keep the church open, we are keen to hear from them.”
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement project online via the St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ page - you can find a live link to the page on our website Home page. Alternatively, you can contact St Mary’s by phone on Hull 618199 or email at info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
www.nationalchurchestrust.org
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614
email: amanda@habergham.net
Notes
The National Churches Trust is the national, non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting churches of all Christian denominations in the UK.
It aims to:
a) Provide grants for the repair, maintenance and modernisation of church buildings
b) Act as a catalyst to improve and bring resources to the management of church buildings
c) Promote the value of church buildings to the community at large
We are a step closer to reaching our target for our major £1 million improvement project following the award of a £7,000 ‘Gateway Grant’ by the National Churches Trust.
However, St Mary’s, which dates back before 1333 and sits at the heart of Hull’s Old Town, still needs to find another £97,700 to fund the first phase of the improvement project, which is to include toilets, kitchen facilities, a new stone-paved floor, heating, electrics and a counselling/meeting room.
The National Churches Trust Gateway Grant of £7,000 is towards vital initial site preparation work to remove asbestos and old decayed heating pipes below St Mary’s’ floor at a cost of £20,200 excluding VAT. It is hoped this will take place early in 2021.
St Mary’s is home to three soup kitchens a week provided by volunteers Hull Homeless Outreach on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Normally church services are held on Fridays and Sundays and the church is open for visitors on Thursdays and Fridays, but services and openings have been affected by Covid-19 restrictions. During the pandemic St Mary’s has been open for private prayer and reflection on Saturdays between 11am and 1pm when permitted.
St Mary’s has a strong musical tradition, and the project will enable the church to be used for a variety of concerts and other events.
St Mary’s’ interior has been in a very poor state for some years. In November we received approval from the Diocese of York’s Consistory Court for our improvement plans.
Commenting on the grant news, St Mary’s’ Priest-in-Charge Father Ian Walker, who joined St Mary’s on November 1, said, “This is welcome news for St Mary’s and we are very grateful to the National Churches Trust. This grant brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of making the church a more welcoming place for worship, visitors and expanding our role in the social and cultural life of Hull’s Old Town.
“We have made a number of other grant applications and await the outcomes. However, if anyone in our community is able to help us, either by donating to the cost of these essential works or by volunteering their time to help us keep the church open, we are keen to hear from them.”
You can donate to St Mary’s’ improvement project online via the St Mary’s’ ‘Give a Little’ page - you can find a live link to the page on our website Home page. Alternatively, you can contact St Mary’s by phone on Hull 618199 or email at info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
www.nationalchurchestrust.org
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614
email: amanda@habergham.net
Notes
The National Churches Trust is the national, non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting churches of all Christian denominations in the UK.
It aims to:
a) Provide grants for the repair, maintenance and modernisation of church buildings
b) Act as a catalyst to improve and bring resources to the management of church buildings
c) Promote the value of church buildings to the community at large
christmas 2020
Christmas Day - 10am
Please join us at 10am for our Christmas Morning Eucharist Service (Said Eucharist for Christmas - BCP 1928)
Sunday, 27th December - Carol Service - 3pm
Please join us at 3pm for our Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Please join us at 10am for our Christmas Morning Eucharist Service (Said Eucharist for Christmas - BCP 1928)
Sunday, 27th December - Carol Service - 3pm
Please join us at 3pm for our Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
faculty approval for first stage of improvement works
November, 2020
NEWS RELEASE
St Mary’s has received approval for a major improvement scheme to cost £1,005,458, but the church, one of Hull’s two oldest, still needs to find over £100,000 to be certain of completing this first phase of desperately needed work.
Known as ‘Hull’s Hidden Gem’, an ‘Oasis of Peace in the Heart of Our City’ and as the ‘gateway’ to Hull’s Old Town - Lowgate’s footpath quite literally runs through St Mary’s 16th Century tower, the church is also a beacon of hope for those in need who gather there for three soup kitchens a week provided by volunteer organisation Hull Homeless Outreach.
However, St Mary’s is in a very poor state.
The scheme ‘Making St Mary’s Fit For Its Communities’ would see the interior of this medieval city centre church, which dates back before 1333, brought into the 21st Century with the installation of toilets, kitchen facilities, heating, new electrics and lighting, a meeting/counselling space and a new stone paved floor.
St Mary’s has been developing and consulting on plans for over five years. This approval from the Diocese of York’s Consistory Court is a major step forward.
At the end of 2019 St Mary’s invited consultees, the Church Buildings Council, Historic England, The Victorian Society and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, to visit and comment on its plans. Following visits in early 2020 prior to the first lockdown, St Mary’s scheme received positive feedback and constructive advice from the Church Buildings Council and Historic England.
The Church Buildings Council said, “The Council was inspired to hear about the ministry sustained by this church despite the manifest difficulties of using the building in its present state. It was convinced that there is a pressing need to undertake the proposed works to make the building fit to sustain and develop its ministry.”
Historic England said, “We consider that the proposals have been developed in a sensitive manner that seeks to work with the form and grain of the building.”
Subsequently, St Mary’s submitted its plans to the Diocese in April and public notices were displayed during the summer inviting anyone interested to comment.
In his decision in favour of the scheme the Worshipful Canon Peter N Collier QC, Chancellor of the Diocese of York, said, “I am satisfied that the people who have put together the current proposals because they wish to see their church not only beautified but also used will be able to offer this sacred space to many different groups in the area…. I am satisfied that there is a very clear and convincing justification for the proposals …”
A number of conditions have been set covering the archaeological watch, lighting and heating plans, the requirement for a further petition for future furnishings and the need for a display to record and explain the history of the church.
Commenting on the news, long-serving churchwarden Hilary Newton said, “Achieving the go ahead for our plans is a tremendous boost. This project really is ‘make’ or ‘break’ for St Mary’s. Without significant change to the interior St Mary’s is unsustainable as a place of worship and the church’s role in the community will no longer be viable.
“This is a matter of survival for St Mary’s. Sadly, years without heating, without toilets, without kitchen facilities, with poor light, below standard electrics and a dangerously uneven floor, have meant that our congregation has dwindled, our support for those in need has been made difficult and our ability to generate sufficient income to keep the church open has been severely hampered.”
Now, there is real light at the end of the tunnel for the church which once thrived under the guidance of 19th Century father and son vicars the ‘Three John Scots’, two of whom helped to establish the rugby league team which is today Hull FC.
With this essential approval in place and the arrival of a new Interim Priest-in-Charge, Father Ian Walker, at the start of November, St Mary’s has renewed hope.
However, major challenges remain, not least the task of finding the £1,005,458 needed to fund the first phase of work. It is believed that a Listed Places of Worship Grant will cover the VAT element and years of fundraising, generous legacies and recent grants mean that the small team at St Mary’s has secured 87% of the budget, but £104,700 remains to be found.
Grants have been received from a number of bodies, including a £5,000 grant from the Diocese of York and awards from two trusts with origins in Hull, which have chosen to make their contributions anonymous. The outcomes of a number of grant applications are awaited, but St Mary’s is calling on the business community in Hull and any individual benefactors who are in a position to, to help it reach its target. If the £104,700 can be secured the whole of the first phase works, which could begin as early as January 2021, can be completed.
“People may not realise that St Mary’s does not receive funding from the Church of England, yet we are responsible for maintaining this Grade II* listed architectural gem, a key landmark in Hull’s civic centre and Old Town. Our parish is one of the five per cent most deprived in the country and we try to help those in need who come here for quiet contemplation, for company over a cup of tea and, via the tremendous work of the Hull Homeless Outreach team, for sustenance, including rough sleepers, people in hostels and any in want of a meal,” adds Hilary Newton.
“We appreciate times are more difficult than ever for the people of Hull with the devasting effect of the virus pandemic, but there may be Hull businesses and successful individuals out there who may be prepared to help us save St Mary’s for future generations?”
Anyone able to help can contact St Mary’s by phone on Hull 618199 or email at info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614, m. 07968 746090
NEWS RELEASE
St Mary’s has received approval for a major improvement scheme to cost £1,005,458, but the church, one of Hull’s two oldest, still needs to find over £100,000 to be certain of completing this first phase of desperately needed work.
Known as ‘Hull’s Hidden Gem’, an ‘Oasis of Peace in the Heart of Our City’ and as the ‘gateway’ to Hull’s Old Town - Lowgate’s footpath quite literally runs through St Mary’s 16th Century tower, the church is also a beacon of hope for those in need who gather there for three soup kitchens a week provided by volunteer organisation Hull Homeless Outreach.
However, St Mary’s is in a very poor state.
The scheme ‘Making St Mary’s Fit For Its Communities’ would see the interior of this medieval city centre church, which dates back before 1333, brought into the 21st Century with the installation of toilets, kitchen facilities, heating, new electrics and lighting, a meeting/counselling space and a new stone paved floor.
St Mary’s has been developing and consulting on plans for over five years. This approval from the Diocese of York’s Consistory Court is a major step forward.
At the end of 2019 St Mary’s invited consultees, the Church Buildings Council, Historic England, The Victorian Society and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, to visit and comment on its plans. Following visits in early 2020 prior to the first lockdown, St Mary’s scheme received positive feedback and constructive advice from the Church Buildings Council and Historic England.
The Church Buildings Council said, “The Council was inspired to hear about the ministry sustained by this church despite the manifest difficulties of using the building in its present state. It was convinced that there is a pressing need to undertake the proposed works to make the building fit to sustain and develop its ministry.”
Historic England said, “We consider that the proposals have been developed in a sensitive manner that seeks to work with the form and grain of the building.”
Subsequently, St Mary’s submitted its plans to the Diocese in April and public notices were displayed during the summer inviting anyone interested to comment.
In his decision in favour of the scheme the Worshipful Canon Peter N Collier QC, Chancellor of the Diocese of York, said, “I am satisfied that the people who have put together the current proposals because they wish to see their church not only beautified but also used will be able to offer this sacred space to many different groups in the area…. I am satisfied that there is a very clear and convincing justification for the proposals …”
A number of conditions have been set covering the archaeological watch, lighting and heating plans, the requirement for a further petition for future furnishings and the need for a display to record and explain the history of the church.
Commenting on the news, long-serving churchwarden Hilary Newton said, “Achieving the go ahead for our plans is a tremendous boost. This project really is ‘make’ or ‘break’ for St Mary’s. Without significant change to the interior St Mary’s is unsustainable as a place of worship and the church’s role in the community will no longer be viable.
“This is a matter of survival for St Mary’s. Sadly, years without heating, without toilets, without kitchen facilities, with poor light, below standard electrics and a dangerously uneven floor, have meant that our congregation has dwindled, our support for those in need has been made difficult and our ability to generate sufficient income to keep the church open has been severely hampered.”
Now, there is real light at the end of the tunnel for the church which once thrived under the guidance of 19th Century father and son vicars the ‘Three John Scots’, two of whom helped to establish the rugby league team which is today Hull FC.
With this essential approval in place and the arrival of a new Interim Priest-in-Charge, Father Ian Walker, at the start of November, St Mary’s has renewed hope.
However, major challenges remain, not least the task of finding the £1,005,458 needed to fund the first phase of work. It is believed that a Listed Places of Worship Grant will cover the VAT element and years of fundraising, generous legacies and recent grants mean that the small team at St Mary’s has secured 87% of the budget, but £104,700 remains to be found.
Grants have been received from a number of bodies, including a £5,000 grant from the Diocese of York and awards from two trusts with origins in Hull, which have chosen to make their contributions anonymous. The outcomes of a number of grant applications are awaited, but St Mary’s is calling on the business community in Hull and any individual benefactors who are in a position to, to help it reach its target. If the £104,700 can be secured the whole of the first phase works, which could begin as early as January 2021, can be completed.
“People may not realise that St Mary’s does not receive funding from the Church of England, yet we are responsible for maintaining this Grade II* listed architectural gem, a key landmark in Hull’s civic centre and Old Town. Our parish is one of the five per cent most deprived in the country and we try to help those in need who come here for quiet contemplation, for company over a cup of tea and, via the tremendous work of the Hull Homeless Outreach team, for sustenance, including rough sleepers, people in hostels and any in want of a meal,” adds Hilary Newton.
“We appreciate times are more difficult than ever for the people of Hull with the devasting effect of the virus pandemic, but there may be Hull businesses and successful individuals out there who may be prepared to help us save St Mary’s for future generations?”
Anyone able to help can contact St Mary’s by phone on Hull 618199 or email at info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
ENDS
For further press information please contact:
Amanda Habergham, St Mary’s Project Officer, Tel: 01482 861614, m. 07968 746090
welcome to father ian walker
St Mary's is delighted to welcome Father Ian Walker as Interim Priest-in-Charge of St Mary's.
Here is a message from Father Walker:
On November 1st (The Feast of All Saints) I was licensed as Interim Priest-in-Charge of St Mary’s and Honorary Assistant Curate of Hull Minster. Three years after I retired, it is a new situation to be back, once more in parish ministry. At present I am living in Thorngumbald where my wife is vicar but in January, we shall be moving to Brandesburton Rectory where my wife is to be a house-for-duty priest in the North Holderness Deanery.
St Mary’s is already establishing links with Hull Minster and my primary role is to prepare for the transition into sharing a Vicar with Holy Trinity and seeking greater collaboration between these churches in the future. Both PCCs have unanimously supported this aspiration but it will be a big change for St Mary’s apart from the added complications of the COVID-19 pandemic. My role is for “Sundays and up to 2 days a week”.
St Mary’s is blessed with a very loyal congregation who have done tremendous work in preparing for an imaginative restoration project and work will hopefully begin in the New Year. Both St Mary’s and the Minster face huge challenges in the coming years in ministering to the centre of Hull. With our different history and complementary traditions, we can do much to support each other. Unfortunately, the licensing service will be the last public service for at least a month, but I hope that we shall be able to meet together for prayer and worship in some ‘virtual’ form.
I look forward to meeting all friends of St Mary’s in some way soon.
With every blessing.
Ian Walker
Here is a message from Father Walker:
On November 1st (The Feast of All Saints) I was licensed as Interim Priest-in-Charge of St Mary’s and Honorary Assistant Curate of Hull Minster. Three years after I retired, it is a new situation to be back, once more in parish ministry. At present I am living in Thorngumbald where my wife is vicar but in January, we shall be moving to Brandesburton Rectory where my wife is to be a house-for-duty priest in the North Holderness Deanery.
St Mary’s is already establishing links with Hull Minster and my primary role is to prepare for the transition into sharing a Vicar with Holy Trinity and seeking greater collaboration between these churches in the future. Both PCCs have unanimously supported this aspiration but it will be a big change for St Mary’s apart from the added complications of the COVID-19 pandemic. My role is for “Sundays and up to 2 days a week”.
St Mary’s is blessed with a very loyal congregation who have done tremendous work in preparing for an imaginative restoration project and work will hopefully begin in the New Year. Both St Mary’s and the Minster face huge challenges in the coming years in ministering to the centre of Hull. With our different history and complementary traditions, we can do much to support each other. Unfortunately, the licensing service will be the last public service for at least a month, but I hope that we shall be able to meet together for prayer and worship in some ‘virtual’ form.
I look forward to meeting all friends of St Mary’s in some way soon.
With every blessing.
Ian Walker
new organ
Posted 21st October, 2020
In October St Mary’s received the most welcome gift of a beautiful electric organ from David Brown. The organ is now in church and the PCC wish to thank David for this tremendous gift.
St Mary’s Organist and Choir Master Patrick Plunkett writes:
The organ is a Viscount ('Prestige') electronic church organ with two manuals and full pedal board. In fact the previous, long serving instrument, was also a Viscount, though this model is obviously much more up to date, more sophisticated technically and offers much more in terms of registration and versatility. It certainly speaks well in St Mary’s’ acoustic and we have the option to add further speakers, should we need to in the future, to relay the sound to even greater effect. This would be a positive move if the instrument will be used for concert/recital performances.
David had mentioned donating the organ sometime ago, knowing that it would be a great improvement for us. He recently made a decision to rationalise his home keyboard instruments and acquire more space. He is now enjoying his new Yamaha digital piano.
David has also kindly donated a Bechstein grand piano to Culture Music and it is now in their new premises in the Maister House in the High Street. Both instruments were moved into their new homes on the same day on 15th October.
David and I have both been into the church to listen to the organ in its new acoustic and sound out the registrations. There is no doubt that David's donation will have a very positive impact on the music of our services in accompanying our choir and we look forward very much to our regular services starting up again after lockdown restrictions.
We are very grateful indeed for David's kind donation and hope he will return to the organ stool for us in the future!
In October St Mary’s received the most welcome gift of a beautiful electric organ from David Brown. The organ is now in church and the PCC wish to thank David for this tremendous gift.
St Mary’s Organist and Choir Master Patrick Plunkett writes:
The organ is a Viscount ('Prestige') electronic church organ with two manuals and full pedal board. In fact the previous, long serving instrument, was also a Viscount, though this model is obviously much more up to date, more sophisticated technically and offers much more in terms of registration and versatility. It certainly speaks well in St Mary’s’ acoustic and we have the option to add further speakers, should we need to in the future, to relay the sound to even greater effect. This would be a positive move if the instrument will be used for concert/recital performances.
David had mentioned donating the organ sometime ago, knowing that it would be a great improvement for us. He recently made a decision to rationalise his home keyboard instruments and acquire more space. He is now enjoying his new Yamaha digital piano.
David has also kindly donated a Bechstein grand piano to Culture Music and it is now in their new premises in the Maister House in the High Street. Both instruments were moved into their new homes on the same day on 15th October.
David and I have both been into the church to listen to the organ in its new acoustic and sound out the registrations. There is no doubt that David's donation will have a very positive impact on the music of our services in accompanying our choir and we look forward very much to our regular services starting up again after lockdown restrictions.
We are very grateful indeed for David's kind donation and hope he will return to the organ stool for us in the future!
annual pcc meeting
Annual PCC meeting
The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday, 25th November. The meeting will take place via zoom which you can access via your PC, laptop, tablet or mobile phone. For joining instructions and for the Agenda please call Olga or email info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday, 25th November. The meeting will take place via zoom which you can access via your PC, laptop, tablet or mobile phone. For joining instructions and for the Agenda please call Olga or email info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk
first service since lockdown
Thank you to Father Dominic for taking our first service since lockdown on Sunday 20th September. It was super to see so many of our congregation return, meet Father Dominic, hear our superb choir sing and take communion together.
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS 2020
Heritage Open Days 2020
St Mary's will be open on:
Saturday, 12th September: 11am – 3pm Opening confirmed
Saturday, 19th September: 11am – 1pm Opening confirmed
Please bring & wear your own face covering unless aged under 11 or exempt.
Other precautions will be in place.
St Mary's will be open on:
Saturday, 12th September: 11am – 3pm Opening confirmed
Saturday, 19th September: 11am – 1pm Opening confirmed
Please bring & wear your own face covering unless aged under 11 or exempt.
Other precautions will be in place.
walk the labyrinth
17th March 2020
Thank you to all those who came along to ‘Walk the Labyrinth’ at St Mary’s last week. ‘Walking the Labyrinth’ was part of the Diocese of York’s ‘Come and See Mission’.
Pictured are: Left to right Bishop Paul of Durham with volunteers Pat Broderick and Carol Toolen.
Thank you to all those who came along to ‘Walk the Labyrinth’ at St Mary’s last week. ‘Walking the Labyrinth’ was part of the Diocese of York’s ‘Come and See Mission’.
Pictured are: Left to right Bishop Paul of Durham with volunteers Pat Broderick and Carol Toolen.
Diocese of York Come and See Mission
Walking the Labyrinth
Thursday 12th and Friday 13th March – 11am – 2pm
Saturday 14th March – 11am – 3pm
Walking the Labyrinth is an invitation to participate in the spiritual experience of walking into the Labyrinth, into the deeper experience of reflection and prayer and being mindful of God.
There will be prayer resources to guide participants, but it is open to individuals to choose how and what they reflect on. Individuals might choose to walk with Jesus in mind, for instance, or to reflect prayerfully on situations in their own lives. The Labyrinth is designed to allow participants to forget for a few moments the busyness of life as they approach the centre of the Labyrinth deep in reflection. Once they have reached the centre which represents the centre point of the reflective experience, participants turn round and prepare to leave the Labyrinth and to rejoin the everyday world. For individuals who are unable to walk the Labyrinth or choose not to, there will be finger labyrinths available if they so wish to use them.
Walking the Labyrinth
Thursday 12th and Friday 13th March – 11am – 2pm
Saturday 14th March – 11am – 3pm
Walking the Labyrinth is an invitation to participate in the spiritual experience of walking into the Labyrinth, into the deeper experience of reflection and prayer and being mindful of God.
There will be prayer resources to guide participants, but it is open to individuals to choose how and what they reflect on. Individuals might choose to walk with Jesus in mind, for instance, or to reflect prayerfully on situations in their own lives. The Labyrinth is designed to allow participants to forget for a few moments the busyness of life as they approach the centre of the Labyrinth deep in reflection. Once they have reached the centre which represents the centre point of the reflective experience, participants turn round and prepare to leave the Labyrinth and to rejoin the everyday world. For individuals who are unable to walk the Labyrinth or choose not to, there will be finger labyrinths available if they so wish to use them.
st Mary's is delighted to have been awarded a churchcare/pilgrim trust grant
6th February 2020
St Mary’s is delighted to have been awarded a ChurchCare/Pilgrim Trust grant of up to £1,200 towards the cost of a conservation report on our monuments.
We have over 30 monuments, not including floor ledger slabs, dating back to 1525 and representing major figures Hull’s history, including this wonderful Dobson monument dated 1666 (shown). Dobson was a Royalist and the monument depicts him wearing his ‘Citizen’s Gown’ and mayoral chain – he was twice mayor and one time sheriff of Hull.
The survey was due to take place in March, but had to be postponed due to the coronavirus lockdown and will now take place in early July.
We would like to thank the Church Buildings Council for its support.
If you would like to see St Mary’s monuments please do visit us. Currently we are closed due to the coronavirus crisis, but hope to re-open as usual 11am to 2pm on Thursdays and Fridays (and summer Saturdays) as soon as possible.
A guide to our monuments and windows is available.
St Mary’s is delighted to have been awarded a ChurchCare/Pilgrim Trust grant of up to £1,200 towards the cost of a conservation report on our monuments.
We have over 30 monuments, not including floor ledger slabs, dating back to 1525 and representing major figures Hull’s history, including this wonderful Dobson monument dated 1666 (shown). Dobson was a Royalist and the monument depicts him wearing his ‘Citizen’s Gown’ and mayoral chain – he was twice mayor and one time sheriff of Hull.
The survey was due to take place in March, but had to be postponed due to the coronavirus lockdown and will now take place in early July.
We would like to thank the Church Buildings Council for its support.
If you would like to see St Mary’s monuments please do visit us. Currently we are closed due to the coronavirus crisis, but hope to re-open as usual 11am to 2pm on Thursdays and Fridays (and summer Saturdays) as soon as possible.
A guide to our monuments and windows is available.
January 2020
A HUGE THANK YOU
To everyone who has completed one of our surveys.
We have 131 completed surveys and will post the outcomes soon.
A HUGE THANK YOU
To everyone who has completed one of our surveys.
We have 131 completed surveys and will post the outcomes soon.
Judith Shirley Preston Andrews
1939-2019
It is with deepest regret that we announce the passing of our dear friend and colleague Judith. Our prayers, thoughts and condolences are with her children Simon and Sarah and the rest of her family and friends at this extremely sad time.
Judith was born in Hull and was proud of her Yorkshire roots. She was educated at Newland High School for Girls before training as a teacher in Lincoln. Shje had a successful career and was headteacher of a number of primary schools.
Judith first came to St Mary's in her teens and eventually served two terms as Church Warden, a position which she held at the time of her passing.
Judith was active within the diocese and served on various committees over the years. Her contributions were always listened to, even if they were not always appreciated. Judith was not afraid to speak her mind!
Judith was a fount of knowledge about the history of St Mary's and would spend a great deal of time talking to visitors about it.
In her younger days, Judith was sporty and was a good swimmer and tennis player. She was also a gregarious person and something of a rebel. She always knew where she was aiming and went for it.
Her love of sport continued in to her later life and she was a season ticket at both Yorkshire Cricket Club and North Ferriby United AFC. She also followed the fortunes of other local sports teams.
In addition, a number of organisations, both lay and church-based benefitted from her involvement. Those organisations, including St Mary's, will miss her input.
Her death will reunite her with her beloved husband Raymond.
Presentation of £675 cheque from the "Keep your gansey dry" concert
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Angela Burkitt has made a photographic record of the carvings at St Mary's, including the pew ends - here is a 'taster'.
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Concert for Hull Homeless Outreach and St Mary's
Friday 29 January
Friday 29 January
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Hull Community Voices Saturday 12 December 2015
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An Advent Calendar
2015
St Mary’s Lowgate.
The City Cloister
‘Lighting a daily candle against the darkness’
November:
Saturday 28th; Victorian Christmas Market: 10.am–Old Town
Hull Community Voices with Ali Bullivent and ‘Music Bus’: for St Mary's Restoration Fund; Tickets £5 Start: 7.30pm
Sunday 29th; Advent Sunday; Sung Eucharist with Litany; 11.00 am: theme, ‘Being Church in City’
A shared Advent Carol Service; 6.30 at Holy Trinity Church.
The Advent Collect
‘Almighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armour of light, now and in the time of this mortal life, in which they Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious Majesty, to judge both the quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, now and ever. Amen’
December:
Tuesday 1st; Soup. Sandwiches and Silence; 12.30-1.30pm
Thursday 3rd; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Friday 4th; Holy Communion; 12.30pm
Sunday 6th; Advent II; Sung Eucharist; 11.00 am; Guest Preacher, Andy Paxton, ‘Church and Culture ’
Sung Evensong; 6.30pm (BCP)
Tuesday 8th; Soup, Sandwiches and Silence; 12.30-1.30pm
Discussion group, ‘Church and the Culture of Vulnerability; part 1’; 7.0pm –Vicarage
Thursday 10th; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Friday 11th; Holy Communion; 12.30pm
Saturday 12th; Hull Community Voices; anything from 150-250 voices! All can join in; 6.30-8.30pm
Sunday 13th; Advent III; Sung Eucharist; 11.00am; Guest Preacher, Shaun Turner, ‘Church and Culture’.
Sung Evensong, (BCP), 6.30pm
Christmas Performance; ‘Project Strings’, Hull University. 7.30pm
Tuesday 15th; ‘Soup, Sandwiches and Silence’; 12.30-1.30pm
Visit by Gillshill Primary school; 2.0pm
Discussion Group; ‘Church and the Culture of Vulnerability; part 2’; 7.0pm- Vicarage
Wednesday 16th; Visit by Gillshill Primary School; 2.0pm
Thursday 17th; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Friday 18th; Holy Communion; 12.30pm
Sunday 20th; Advent IV; Sung Eucharist; 11.00am; theme, ‘Saving the best ‘til last’.
Tuesday 22nd; ‘Soup, Sandwiches and Silence’ 12.30-1.30pm
Thursday 24th; Christmas Eve; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Midnight Mass of the Nativity; 11.15pm
The Christmas Day Collect
‘Almighty God, who hast given us thy only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and at this time to be born of a pure Virgin; Grant that we being regenerate, and made thy children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by thy Holy Spirit; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the same Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen.’
Friday 25th; Christmas Day; Holy Communion; 10.00am
Sunday 27th; John, Apostle and Evangelist, Sung Eucharist 11.am
Nine Lessons and Carols; 3.0pm
…………….
For the New Year Ahead
May the Lord Bless you and keep you;
The Lord make his face upon you
And be gracious unto you;
The Lord light up the light of his countenance upon you
And give you his peace
2015
St Mary’s Lowgate.
The City Cloister
‘Lighting a daily candle against the darkness’
November:
Saturday 28th; Victorian Christmas Market: 10.am–Old Town
Hull Community Voices with Ali Bullivent and ‘Music Bus’: for St Mary's Restoration Fund; Tickets £5 Start: 7.30pm
Sunday 29th; Advent Sunday; Sung Eucharist with Litany; 11.00 am: theme, ‘Being Church in City’
A shared Advent Carol Service; 6.30 at Holy Trinity Church.
The Advent Collect
‘Almighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armour of light, now and in the time of this mortal life, in which they Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious Majesty, to judge both the quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, now and ever. Amen’
December:
Tuesday 1st; Soup. Sandwiches and Silence; 12.30-1.30pm
Thursday 3rd; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Friday 4th; Holy Communion; 12.30pm
Sunday 6th; Advent II; Sung Eucharist; 11.00 am; Guest Preacher, Andy Paxton, ‘Church and Culture ’
Sung Evensong; 6.30pm (BCP)
Tuesday 8th; Soup, Sandwiches and Silence; 12.30-1.30pm
Discussion group, ‘Church and the Culture of Vulnerability; part 1’; 7.0pm –Vicarage
Thursday 10th; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Friday 11th; Holy Communion; 12.30pm
Saturday 12th; Hull Community Voices; anything from 150-250 voices! All can join in; 6.30-8.30pm
Sunday 13th; Advent III; Sung Eucharist; 11.00am; Guest Preacher, Shaun Turner, ‘Church and Culture’.
Sung Evensong, (BCP), 6.30pm
Christmas Performance; ‘Project Strings’, Hull University. 7.30pm
Tuesday 15th; ‘Soup, Sandwiches and Silence’; 12.30-1.30pm
Visit by Gillshill Primary school; 2.0pm
Discussion Group; ‘Church and the Culture of Vulnerability; part 2’; 7.0pm- Vicarage
Wednesday 16th; Visit by Gillshill Primary School; 2.0pm
Thursday 17th; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Friday 18th; Holy Communion; 12.30pm
Sunday 20th; Advent IV; Sung Eucharist; 11.00am; theme, ‘Saving the best ‘til last’.
Tuesday 22nd; ‘Soup, Sandwiches and Silence’ 12.30-1.30pm
Thursday 24th; Christmas Eve; Midday Prayer; 12.30pm
Midnight Mass of the Nativity; 11.15pm
The Christmas Day Collect
‘Almighty God, who hast given us thy only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and at this time to be born of a pure Virgin; Grant that we being regenerate, and made thy children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by thy Holy Spirit; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the same Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen.’
Friday 25th; Christmas Day; Holy Communion; 10.00am
Sunday 27th; John, Apostle and Evangelist, Sung Eucharist 11.am
Nine Lessons and Carols; 3.0pm
…………….
For the New Year Ahead
May the Lord Bless you and keep you;
The Lord make his face upon you
And be gracious unto you;
The Lord light up the light of his countenance upon you
And give you his peace
St. Mary the Virgin, Lowgate
Kingston Upon Hull
www.stmaryslowgate.org.uk
Warmly invite you for:
Soup, Sandwiches and
The `silent carriage’ in life
Each Tuesday in December
12.30 noon – 1.30pm
A time for personal reflection and `Digital Detox’
Kingston Upon Hull
www.stmaryslowgate.org.uk
Warmly invite you for:
Soup, Sandwiches and
The `silent carriage’ in life
Each Tuesday in December
12.30 noon – 1.30pm
A time for personal reflection and `Digital Detox’
`Project Strings' performed at St Mary's on Sunday 25 October 2015.
A wonderful experience!
A wonderful experience!
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It's good to be thanked but helping groups in the local community is what St Mary's is about!
Marriage of Mr and Mrs Juggins - Saturday 17 October 2015
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`Hull International Photography Exhibition, October 2015'
St Mary's was one of a number of venues for this prestigious exhibition.
St Mary's was one of a number of venues for this prestigious exhibition.
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Hull Harvest Feastival on Saturday 10 October 2015. St. Mary's was one venue where food donations were stored.
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Sunday18 October 2015
It was a great joy for us to welcome The Right Reverend Alison White for a very beautiful Choral Evensong. We are assured that she too was very pleased to have met us. We look forward to working with her in the future. We keep her and her family in our prayers.
It was a great joy for us to welcome The Right Reverend Alison White for a very beautiful Choral Evensong. We are assured that she too was very pleased to have met us. We look forward to working with her in the future. We keep her and her family in our prayers.
Bishop Alison
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Bishop Alison and Father Paul
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St. Mary the Virgin,
Lowgate
Kingston upon Hull
City Cloister.
For exhibitions in camera
For performances in chamber
For prayer in choir
Lowgate
Kingston upon Hull
City Cloister.
For exhibitions in camera
For performances in chamber
For prayer in choir
Rich Sharp Wilson24 September at 15:22 A short article about St. Mary's Church and their long history of reaching out a helping hand to the most destitute of our city.http://wsohull.weebly.com/st-marys-church-a-history-of-helping-the-destitute.html
Wedding of Mr & Mrs Newell 11 July 2015
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Wedding of Mr & Mrs Newell 11 July 2015
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CURRENT NEWS & EVENTS
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31 July and 01 August 2015 - Make It Prompt Theatre Company performed a wonderful show `Two', written by Jim Cartwright. Benedict Pearman and Amber Devine superbly playing a variety of roles, and professionally Directed by Tim Bettridge. Joshua was Sound and Light Technician and Anna was Stage Manager, both professional in their roles.
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You can see past news and events on our Facebook Page. We are always looking for new ideas for events celebrating creativity and/or spirituality. The church is a prestigious and welcoming venue. Please feel free Exciting plans for the future at St Mary's Lowgate to contact us with your ideas.
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28 July 2015 Darren and Shairalee Hampshire wonderfully renewed their marriage vows after 25 years.
Published courtesy of Yorkshire Post
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`Isaiah 61' - faith, hope and love. July 2015
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Graciana Presicci at St Mary's, July 2015
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Claude Bourbon at St Mary's in June 2015
The Homeless Jesus Sculpture
St mary's, Lowgate are looking for a sponsor/patron to commission the "Homeless Jesus" . It would be a stunning and meaningful installation to mark the 2017 Hull City of Culture.
For further information contact
Father Paul Burkitt on 01482 218879, or email: info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk or paul@angela75.karoo.co.uk
St mary's, Lowgate are looking for a sponsor/patron to commission the "Homeless Jesus" . It would be a stunning and meaningful installation to mark the 2017 Hull City of Culture.
For further information contact
Father Paul Burkitt on 01482 218879, or email: info@stmaryslowgate.org.uk or paul@angela75.karoo.co.uk
Claude Bourbon Concert
World renowned guitarist Claude Bourbon will perform at St Mary's on Saturday 20 June at 7.30pm. Tickets £10/£8. Pay on the night. Claude played at St Mary's last year and he enjoyed the atmosphere and acoustics so much that he requested the chance to return for another concert. This is a rare opportunity to listen and talk with a world-class guitarist.
A Masterclass with Claude is available on Saturday afternoon.
Contact Rev Paul Burkitt on 01482 218879 for details of masterclass and concert tickets
http://l.facebook.com/l/0AQGGRD6eAQEArJ3J-ASQsKvAhW8mpsNG8KP4CMIIVZbtfQ/www.claudebourbon.org
World renowned guitarist Claude Bourbon will perform at St Mary's on Saturday 20 June at 7.30pm. Tickets £10/£8. Pay on the night. Claude played at St Mary's last year and he enjoyed the atmosphere and acoustics so much that he requested the chance to return for another concert. This is a rare opportunity to listen and talk with a world-class guitarist.
A Masterclass with Claude is available on Saturday afternoon.
Contact Rev Paul Burkitt on 01482 218879 for details of masterclass and concert tickets
http://l.facebook.com/l/0AQGGRD6eAQEArJ3J-ASQsKvAhW8mpsNG8KP4CMIIVZbtfQ/www.claudebourbon.org
The promotional video for the Friends of St Mary's can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7mczlgu7A8
On the joyful occasion of Holy Baptism of Andrew and Bobby James Thompson, Sunday 10 May 2015. Followed by chocolate cake enjoyed by all thanks to Olga.
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TIME & Place Art Exhibition ; May 2015
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Estuary TV's news item about St Mary's
Estuary TV recently made a recording at St Mary's. An edited version that was broadcast on 3rd March can be viewed here
http://youtu.be/EN2J_MU7fCk?t=10m36s
Estuary TV recently made a recording at St Mary's. An edited version that was broadcast on 3rd March can be viewed here
http://youtu.be/EN2J_MU7fCk?t=10m36s
From the Hull Daily Mail, Friday 27 Feb 2015
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Art Safari exhibition – St Mary’s begins – 17 March for four weeks.
ART SAFARI has been a 10 part, fortnightly, exploration of art that combines creative play with gallery visits, artists talks, a walking tour and sketchbook working. Based in Hull, the programme invited participants to explore new spaces, join in with practical sessions and ask questions. The course actively embraced the Five Ways to Health and Wellbeing (New Economics Foundation) as well as providing a space to experiment and learn new skills alongside developing original artworks. The project has been funded by Hull County Council and facilitated with the help of Timebank, Hull. Here are some of the quotes expressed so far: ‘It’s ideal for me. It’s experimental so your ideas can just fly’ Heather Freckleton 'It's very good...an inspiration' Maria Magoula 'I just wanted to thank you very much for yesterdays session...I found the session quite profound in many ways, including personally.' Lesley McCallion |
"On Ash Wednesday, 18th February, we were joined by the University of Hull Chapel Choir, with their Director, Simon Desbruslais. As part of the Eucharist and the service of the Imposition of Ashes, the choir sang Allegri's 'Miserere' A stunning piece, stunningly performed. The choir also sang Gibbons', 'Drop, drop Slow Tears' after the receiving of communion. We were greatly enriched by this in our act of worship. The choir enjoyed the natural beauty and acoustic brilliance of the church, and seek to come again soon, maybe for a Choral Evensong. Certainly a bond has been made. Thank you again to Simon and the Chapel Choir.
Meanwhile, to demonstrate the absolute breadth of the work at St Mary's, at the same time forty five people had just been fed at the soup-kitchen in the church yard. Prayers for them."
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The accompanying article is from The Hull Daily Mail of 13 February 2015.
Please share news of St Mary's fundraising appeal with your friends and family. With your help, St Mary's can become a lively and vibrant part of the local community |
St Mary the Virgin, Lowgate and Hull FC.
Did you know there was a link between St Mary's and Hull FC? One of the three Rev John Scotts, that's right, the same three that the pub is named after, was instrumental in the formation of Hull FC.
Rev Paul Burkitt recently gave an interview on the subject to the BBC. It can be heard here:
www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-humber-31145342.
Did you know there was a link between St Mary's and Hull FC? One of the three Rev John Scotts, that's right, the same three that the pub is named after, was instrumental in the formation of Hull FC.
Rev Paul Burkitt recently gave an interview on the subject to the BBC. It can be heard here:
www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-humber-31145342.
Our new Recognised Parish Assistants
"On February 1st we were able to commission April Heywood and Philip Withers as Recognised Pastoral Assistants. They have completed a course designed for the Diocese. We are very grateful to them both for staying with the course and look forward with working with them. The harvest is ripe but the labours are few, but two more are now going into the fields!"
Photo l to r: Philip, April and Rev Paul Burkitt
"On February 1st we were able to commission April Heywood and Philip Withers as Recognised Pastoral Assistants. They have completed a course designed for the Diocese. We are very grateful to them both for staying with the course and look forward with working with them. The harvest is ripe but the labours are few, but two more are now going into the fields!"
Photo l to r: Philip, April and Rev Paul Burkitt
St Mary's & Hull Homeless Outreach Limited
`St. Mary's has recently been blessed with the opportunity of giving hospitality to the group `Hull Homeless Outreach Limited'. They are a very lively and committed group of people who are providing a `soup kitchen' twice a week and a `food bank' once a week. Donations of food and clothing will always be welcome because, `we can only give away what has been given to us'. Thanks to everybody for their interest and involvement. Just a note, on the first three nights of the soup kitchen around 100 people were fed and listened to.
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Poem and copyright by Kett Sable
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Lord Mayor visits St Mary's
It was a great pleasure to welcome the Lord Mayor and her Consort on Thursday 06 November 2014. She spoke very highly of St. Mary's and its unique atmosphere and display of 700 years of our City's heritage. Cllr Glew moved amongst our visitors and church members, and remained impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of those she met. Cllr Glew was able to see what `A Hidden Gem' St. Mary's is. She will be taking part in the Remembrance Service for those lost on our roads on Sunday 16th November 2014 at 2.30pm. She will also open `2015 Our Year to Prepare' on January 11th 2015, as well as launch the `Friends' of St. Mary's at our morning 11.00am service. So impressed was she, that Cllr Glew will incorporate St. Mary's in her varied programme of events as well as dedicate a memorial plaque to a famous person connected to the parish, yet to be decided upon. She also intends to encourage the Chief Executive 2017 Year of Culture, to give St. Mary's a high profile in her planning. Our thanks go to Cllr Glew for her support and I am sure her prayers. |
Lest we forget to Remember.
The ‘inglorious dead’.
This is the time of the year when the churches pay special attention to those who have died. Prayers are said for the continual rest of the departed one, as well as fully acknowledging his or her life.
One way of showing our respects to our friends and relatives after death, is to mark the place of their burial. Some years ago (2000-2002) the people of St Mary’s became very conscious that so many people in our City had died and were buried, but no-one could afford a headstone, or fitting memorial.
In conjunction with a poverty action group (ATD-4th World), a large memorial was set up in ‘Memory of all those who lie in unmarked graves’. This is in Northern Cemetery, and was unveiled by our former Bishop, Richard Frith, 2002. From cholera victims, to the war dead, to the lonely pensioner, to the still born.
For many, many years and sadly still today, graves have been left unmarked, through financial compromise, through poverty. It is the work of every culture to honour and revere the dead, to acknowledge the past glories and discoveries, to value a loved one.
The sign of a living caring culture is that all who have died, perhaps unknown to anyone, is valued. The Stone in Northern is a place to go and sit and wonder, a place to set flowers.
In St.Mary’s, Lowgate there is also a Book of Remembrance. We set out an appeal around 2000, for people to add names of any relatives or friends they knew of. That book is kept safe alongside the memory.
The book might need bringing up to date, so should you want to add a name then please make contact with The Reverend Paul Burkitt, 218879, or through the web-site, www.stmaryslowgate.org
It is so important that we don’t forget those who were at one time forgotten.
All enquiries will be treated in complete confidence.
There are those who have lived
The ‘inglorious dead’.
This is the time of the year when the churches pay special attention to those who have died. Prayers are said for the continual rest of the departed one, as well as fully acknowledging his or her life.
One way of showing our respects to our friends and relatives after death, is to mark the place of their burial. Some years ago (2000-2002) the people of St Mary’s became very conscious that so many people in our City had died and were buried, but no-one could afford a headstone, or fitting memorial.
In conjunction with a poverty action group (ATD-4th World), a large memorial was set up in ‘Memory of all those who lie in unmarked graves’. This is in Northern Cemetery, and was unveiled by our former Bishop, Richard Frith, 2002. From cholera victims, to the war dead, to the lonely pensioner, to the still born.
For many, many years and sadly still today, graves have been left unmarked, through financial compromise, through poverty. It is the work of every culture to honour and revere the dead, to acknowledge the past glories and discoveries, to value a loved one.
The sign of a living caring culture is that all who have died, perhaps unknown to anyone, is valued. The Stone in Northern is a place to go and sit and wonder, a place to set flowers.
In St.Mary’s, Lowgate there is also a Book of Remembrance. We set out an appeal around 2000, for people to add names of any relatives or friends they knew of. That book is kept safe alongside the memory.
The book might need bringing up to date, so should you want to add a name then please make contact with The Reverend Paul Burkitt, 218879, or through the web-site, www.stmaryslowgate.org
It is so important that we don’t forget those who were at one time forgotten.
All enquiries will be treated in complete confidence.
There are those who have lived
RESTORATION APPEAL
At a recent fundraising meeting, it was agreed to start
a 'Restoration Appeal' and to call it 'AD 2015-Our Year to Prepare'.
We welcome ideas as how to how we might be imaginative in this.We are also to begin the process of estabishing a 'Friends of St. Mary's'
Meanwhile, we await the final ground survey. We then have to have a quantity surveyor who will tell how much it might all cost. Then, we shall know how much we shall need! Then, I hope we have some friends left!.
At a recent fundraising meeting, it was agreed to start
a 'Restoration Appeal' and to call it 'AD 2015-Our Year to Prepare'.
We welcome ideas as how to how we might be imaginative in this.We are also to begin the process of estabishing a 'Friends of St. Mary's'
Meanwhile, we await the final ground survey. We then have to have a quantity surveyor who will tell how much it might all cost. Then, we shall know how much we shall need! Then, I hope we have some friends left!.
Our visit to Sharow
Visit to Sharrow Church Our visit to Sharrow Church on Saturday 20th September 2014 was very exciting. Our aim was to look around a church which had been recently restored. We began the day with a Eucharist, using the nave altar. This was new for us, sitting on chairs and receiving communion stood up! We shared lunch and Rev Linda Boon talked us through this journey of restoration. Issues of fundraising, disruption, and planning all came up. Ken Bradley showed us some slides of the whole process. Our thanks to the people there especially Rev Linda, Ken and Shirley. It was a very helpful day, and food for thought as we continue our part of the journey. News from the Recent PCC: Inevitably we had to review our finances, and it means the famous ‘belt-tightening’. House Keeping requires prudent budgeting. Our everyday expenses can only be paid from our weekly giving. Well, we need at least £80 per week. Each of us has to review how we give. The weekly pew leaflet is sadly under threat because of printing costs. Again donations, directly gift aided to ‘printing’ , would go a long way to keeping this valuable little publication. This week (w/c 1 Sep)the ORGAN is being assessed. The findings will determine its fate. Homlessness.
As part of our way of working as “Church” , the social responsibility group is meeting regularly and exploring how “Church” can be relevant, and co-operative, in the overall lives of those who are rendered homeless. There are statutory and charitable groups that offer valuable front line interventions and care. At St. Mary’s we meet many people who are often quite disturbed and are open about exploring the state of their mental health. Many who come seem not to have a sense of being supported. We are looking at how we might effectively work with the professional teams, and hopefully provide a support which is part of an integrated pattern of care. Please make contact with us if you have ideas or experience. For now, anyone who is homeless can call in the Wilson Centre, on Alfred Gelder Street. The walk-in centre is open, 9am-4.30pm on Monday, Tuesday. Thursday, Friday. Wednesday 11am-4.40pm. Meanwhile HARP are appealing for help, funds, volunteers, supplies. Based at Dock House, St. Peter Street, HU9 1AF. Direct Line: 01482 219022. Architect's meeting and the DAC reponse: An exciting future in prospect!
The meeting with David Sherriff, our Architect, was very productive. The proposed ground plan is taking shape. The aim is to maintain the final vision and organise the plan of works in manageable stages. We hope to be able to so adapt the premises that full use, both for church purposes and community uses can be properly developed. Funding will have to come from a variety of specialised charitable trusts and any private donors. We are still undecided as to whether to keep and restore the pipe organ or to dispose of it to reputable organ builder. Any suggestions would be welcome. Here is the DAC Secretary's minute of the Diocesan Advisory Committee’s comments and advice on the proposals submitted: (August 1st 2014) `Although this application for advice was in a very preliminary state – really an imaginative portfolio of ideas and references – members were unanimous in welcoming its brave and adventurous spirit, its deep respect for the building and its qualities, its understated creativity, and the architects’ passionate urge to make fine, beautiful spaces in a building which they clearly admire and understand. The Committee was aware that the external fabric of the church was now in good heart, but that the interior – perhaps the loveliest ancient, urban church interior in the diocese – was in very poor condition. The expansive large outer south aisle, added in the mid-19 th century, now had little or no function, the building was pewed to accommodate unrealistically large numbers of people, the heating and lighting installations were in desperate need of renewal, the uneven and damaged floors were dangerous, there were no decent vestry facilities and no kitchen or WC worth the name, and the wonderful interior with fine mural monuments, glass and Sir GG Scott/Temple Moore fittings was extremely dirty and impossible to appreciate properly. Despite which the location of the church had enormous possibilities for mission, education, arts and community engagement, and tourism, and seemed now to have a PCC with the energy to manage a major revival. The architects had suggested wholesale clearance of the outer south aisle, and the introduction of a new stone floor and elegant, sophisticated new structures containing much-needed kitchens, WCs and other facilities – this in the context of wholly new services and a complete restoration of the interior, retaining and enhancing the superb furnishings and liturgical arrangements in the nave and north aisle. It was noted that the organ was a large two-manual instrument of some significance, which had been unplayable for many years and required complete dismantling and re-building. However, it was neither used nor apparently needed by the parish, and its repair would absorb very large sums of money which could only be raised with enormous effort and commitment. The Diocesan Organ Advisor had in the past accepted that it could only be retained in situ if mothballed, but had observed that he ‘would not like to see an instrument of this importance, built by a firm eminent in their time, broken up for removal. Only if it were removed and reconstructed carefully elsewhere would this be a suitable solution’. Members warmly welcomed the architects’ vision for the future of the church, and asked the Secretary to write to them, encouraging further development of their ideas, but counselling that the Ancient Monuments Society, the Victorian Society and the Church Buildings Council will all have to be consulted at the appropriate time’. Father Paul's licensing
Fr Paul rings the bell as a sign of the beginning of his Ministry as Priest-in-Charge.
Along with being licensed, Fr Paul is `installed' as teacher and pastor. His stall, after the Altar is his primary place for prayer and leading worship.
Here's a working model of what our beloved church offers. Click here for the bigger version and Like it on Facebook soyou get a chance or send us comments. Thanks!
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Exciting plans for the future at St Mary's Lowgate
The road to restoration has begun. Our Architect David Sherriff, is submitting these Preliminary plans to the Diocesan Advisory Committee, for comments and fine tuning. Please feel free to add your comments. We will be glad if you could follow our progress and perhaps assist us with meeting our costs. The next meeting with the Architect will be on August 6th 2014 at 7.30pm to agree on the first stage of the works. The overall plan is to allow St. Mary's to become an inclusive space for contemporary activities, but maintaining the dignity and beauty of all that we hold sacred.
Exhibition Photos by Angela Burkitt
Abstract painting by local artist Dawn Lord
"Unity": a wearable sculpture by Kia Macpherson
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