The Archbishop of York joined with worshippers at Christ Church Sowerby Bridge during a year in which they are celebrating 200 years of a spiritual and physical presence in the town.
The Most Reverend & Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell was joined on Sunday, March 20 by the newly appointed Archdeacon of Halifax, The Ven Bill Braviner, and representatives from churches in the “Halifax and Calder Valley” deanery. Representatives from community groups and the local schools were also in attendance.
The first mention of Christ Church’s current building is in the diary of Ann Lister, and the actual opening date was under a special licence on 24th May 1821. Anniversary celebrations were postponed until 2022 because of the covid pandemic.
Archbishop Stephen reminded everyone during the service that the stone walls on Wharf Street are not the church, the church is in fact its people. He encouraged those in attendance to collectively as “the church” live out what may seem as an invisible faith, with hands and hearts seven days a week in the course of daily life.
However, Archbishop Stephen went on to explain, “that Matter matters and in the physical presence of things like bread and wine; stone and bells; our building makes a visible statement that God’s people are here on the main street for the whole community.”
Revd Canon Angela Dick, vicar at Christ Church Sowerby Bridge, said, “It is a very special day for us. We welcome Archbishop Stephen as an old friend who knows our church from his days as the ‘Diocesan Missioner’ of the then Diocese of Wakefield, some twenty plus years ago.”
Pictured with the Archbishop of York, Archdeacon of Halifax and Revd Angela are the Church Wardens, Peter Henry and Dave Gill, who played a key part in the event.
Peter Henry said, “I’d like to thank the many individuals, businesses and grant giving bodies, which have generously supported us over the years: particularly the Community Foundation for Calderdale.
“Our building may be 200 years old but we have recently made big improvements in the fabric, facilities and events we can offer.
“We’re now equipped to stage concerts, exhibitions and lower key events. One such is our weekly Digital Café for those wanting to get to grips with a smart-phone, or improve their skills learning how to use the NHS app, or try on-line shopping”.
Christ Church’s anniversary celebrations continue until the end of the year with a visit from the Bishop of Leeds on Sunday, May 15, a Flower festival during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, and other events to maintain and fund further improvements.
For more information, please visit the church website at www.christchurchsb.org.uk