Picture courtesy of James Hardisty, Yorkshire Post Newspapers (Vicar, the Revd Ruth Newton)
The church of St John’s, Sharow threw open its doors at the weekend after half a million pounds worth of conservation, restoration and building works.
For months, the church has been shrouded by scaffolding inside and out as conservators worked on stained glass and wall paintings alongside the construction of new, modern facilities thanks to money from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Dean of Ripon, the Very Rev John Dobson, cut the ribbon on Sunday (April 29) welcoming everyone to the building. He said: “The Vision Project at St. John’s, Sharow is a shining example of how the Church’s vision to serve can lead to transformation for both the community and the church’s heritage.
“The success which is now so evident both in and around the church building is a credit to those who have worked very hard to turn the vision into reality. We are grateful to them, and to the charitable, corporate and individual donors without whose support this could not have happened. Long may this church-based vision benefit the life of the whole community.”
Visitors were given the opportunity to enjoy tours around the building with the church’s Heritage Officer, the chance to meet the conservators and to see an exhibition of still and moving imagery which showed the work underway. A selection of home made food was served and craft activities and stained glass workshops took place throughout the afternooon, followed by a celebratory evening service led by the Bishop of Ripon, the Right Rev Dr Helen-Ann Hartley. The service was followed by a reception with live music, fizz and canapes to draw the evening to a close.
You can find out more on the church’s website at stjohnssharow.org.uk or on F