800 years of love and hope

MINE’S a pint . . . the bishop behind the bar at the Church Inn

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THE Bishop of Manchester has suggested Saddleworth’s ancient churches could become centres for arts and community-based events.

The Rt Rev Dr David Walker was speaking at the launch of a year-long celebration to mark St Chad’s 800th anniversary in Uppermill on Sunday.

In a thought-provoking sermon, he challenged the congregation by asking: “What can we do in this church that will be bold, innovative and daring?”

His question came after he observed: “Having an old building is not a reason for doing everything in an old-fashioned way. It is actually an impetus for doing things a more modern building may not have the character to carry off.

“Once a place has stood and been prayed in for a few lifetimes it carries the continuity and stability of the gospel so firmly that it’s possible to experiment more boldly. Old church buildings provide a perfect context for daring art displays, music concerts and dramatic performances.”

Bishop David, who was born in Mossley, said the last time he was asked to speak at Saddleworth Parish Church at Sunday worship was more than 40 years ago, as a member of the church youth club.

He told the congregation: “What we are celebrating today is the persistence of the Christian faith in the lives of Saddleworth people from as far back as when the notorious King John was on the throne of England and the ink was still wet on the Magna Carta.”

After dedicating a specially-erected Celtic cross in honour of the church’s patron saint, the bishop, congregation, including other faith churches from across Saddleworth, listened to an uplifting debut performance of “A Psalm for St Chad”. Composed by Gail Randall, from Moorside, the piece was accompanied by organ, church choirs across the benefice and hand bell ringers.

Later this year, a special pilgrimage will take place from Saddleworth to Lichfield. For further information, visit saddleworthteam-cofe.org.uk or call 01457-879 977.


DISCERNING drinkers later toasted the launch of St Chad’s 800th anniversary with a sparkling new real ale.

St Chad’s Bitter is the latest creation from the Church Inn, Uppermill, and is brewed a few yards from the entrance of the ancient church The beer went on sale in the pub after the packed service.

Landlady Christine Taylor said proudly: “Customers said it was heavenly — touched by angels. We had saved the brew for a special occasion and thought this was fitting.”