THE Rector, Revd Matthew Tregenza, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and the Governors of Crediton Parish Church are pleased to announce that the church has been designated as a Major Parish Church (MPC).

It is now one of 350 Major Parish Churches, all of which are considered to be the largest, most significant and well-loved places of worship of the 16,000 churches in England.

HERITAGE OPEN DAY

On Sunday, August 18, from 1pm to 4.30pm, a Heritage Open Day is being held at the church.

It will provide an opportunity for visitors to appreciate why the church deserves this status and see parts of the church not normally open to the public.

The open day will include tours of the historic Governors Room at 1.15pm and 3.15pm, a tour of the bells and clock room at 2.30pm, carving of a Green Man, a demonstration of the woodwork skills of craftsmen from local company Dart and Francis and a display of archive material.

Visitors will also be able to hear the organ playing, view or take part in arts and crafts stained glass, and enjoy tea or coffee in the church.

Cream teas will be served in the Boniface Centre from 2pm to 5pm (last orders at 4.30pm).

A DVD will provide accessibility for those with mobility problems.

Anne Jerman, on behalf of the PCC said: "Crediton Parish Church meets the MPC criteria by being of exceptional significance; physically very big (over 1000m2 footprint); Grade I listed; open to visitors daily; and making a contribution to the local community.

"It is seen as simply awe-inspiring because of its size and architecture – providing a place for personal sanctuary and grand public spectacle, prayer and celebration, serving people and hosting the most important civic events.

"Research has found that public understanding of how their local parish church is funded and managed is very low.

"There is a general perception that large churches are equivalent to cathedrals and have access to the same resources or that because the buildings are impressive, they must be wealthy.

"Unfortunately, this is not the case.

"Money for the repair and maintenance of the church has to be raised locally by the Governors and Restoration Committee through the June and Christmas Tree Festivals, public appeals, grants and legacies."

Anne continued: "In the past five years, the 12 Governors (who together with their predecessors have owned the church and churchyard on behalf of all the residents of Crediton for more than 450 years) have spent money raised of £127,000 on the most urgent repairs.

"Special appeals are needed for large projects, such as the current Roof Appeal and rewiring and relighting the church in 2011.

"The PCC meets the day-to-day running costs which enables the church to function and to offer ministry, services, baptisms, weddings, funerals and to host civic occasions, concerts and other events.

"These costs amount to around £120,000 per year for regular commitments and probably another £20,000 for other costs that arise.

"The PCC raises the majority of its income through the regular giving of the congregation and fund-raising events such as the Book Fair and St Nicholas Fair. The PCC is currently running at a deficit with expenditure exceeding income despite enormous efforts on the part of the congregation."

Mrs Jerman appealed: "Could you help support your Parish Church?

"We are grateful for the financial support that the people of Crediton give (most often through the two Festivals) – donations made in the church during the Heritage Open Day will go to the Roof Appeal whilst the Cream Teas are raising money for the PCC.

"There are also practical ways in which people can help all-year-round.

"If you’re interested in helping to preserve and maintain the fabric of the building, there are practical jobs we can do for ourselves.

"Would you be interested in learning more about the history of the church, its architecture and artefacts and acting as a guide for the occasional visiting groups or during the June and Christmas Tree Festivals?

"Could you spare just an hour during the Festivals to help with stewarding, catering or on the church gift stall?"

For more information, telephone Bill and Anne Jerman on 01363 772865 or go along on Sunday, August 18 and speak to them in person.

Anne concluded: "Your Parish Church Needs You!"