St Peter’s has stood at the heart of the village since 1892 and is developing new ways for people to explore its heritage while discovering more about what happens inside its historic walls.
The vicarVicar (Latin vicarius 'substitute') 1. A substitute, representative, or proxy. 2. Title given to priest responsible for caring for a parish. In the Middle Ages many rectors (who had the right to the income from a parish church) appointed vicars to care for the parish in their place. Now also used of a priest who is a member (team vicar) of a team ministry., Ven Mike McGurk said the project is focused on reaching people in the wider community who may recognise the church but have never stepped inside.
“Many people in this community know this church. It’s been part of their lives, but very few of them have actually been here or come inside to what church is all about,” he explained.
One of the key developments is a new church explorer app, which will allow visitors to take a virtual tour of St Peter’s. The digital experience will guide users around the building, highlighting its architectural and historical features and explaining their significance.
The virtual tour will include important parts of the church such as the fontFont A receptacle for water, used for baptism., war memorials, organ, pulpit and altar, as well as features of the building itself.
Visitors will be encouraged to consider questions about the church’s architecture, including why the roof has its distinctive shape, while also learning about the role different areas of the building play in worshipWorship 1. Doing homage and giving honour and respect to God. The Bible includes a wide range of physical expression in worship, including bowing down, lifting hands, dancing, processions and singing. The main day on which Christians gather for communal worship is Sunday (the day when Christ is believed to have risen from the dead). 2. Christian liturgy including sung material and prayers of thanksgiving and praise..
The project will also explore the church’s religiousReligious 1. Concerned with religion, showing belief in God or a deity. 2. In regards to an individual, refers to a member of an order of monks, nuns or friars who follow a Rule of life significance, with the app providing information about communion and the EucharistMass (Also called the Eucharist, Holy Communion or Lord's Supper). The chief sacramental service of the Church, incorporating praise, intercession and readings from scripture. The central action is the consecration of the bread and wine by the priest, recalling the words and actions of Christ at the Last Supper and commemorating the sacrifice which he offered for the sins of mankind on the cross. In the medieval Church the Mass was celebrated daily; it was also offered for the souls of the dead, preaching and worship, alongside the history of St Peter’s.
Families are also being encouraged to explore the church through a “mouse trail”. Twelve mice have been hidden around the building, creating a treasure-hunt-style activity for children and their families.
Mike said the wider ambition was for people to know more than simply the building itself.
“PilgrimPilgrim 1. In the New Testament and Christian thought, someone engaged in the Christian journey through life towards heaven. 2. Someone who journeys to holy places (such as biblical sites or shrines of the saints) to seek God's help, to give thanks, or as an act of penance Place” is being presented as an opportunity to engage with local parishes and the wider community, creating a space where people can explore heritage while discovering more about the life and message of the church.”