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Christ Church, Derby
Christ Church, Derby.JPG
Christ Church, Derby
52°55′0.4″N 1°28′42.3″W / 52.916778°N 1.478417°W / 52.916778; -1.478417
Location Derby
Country England
Denomination Serbian Orthodox
Previous denomination Church of England
History
Dedication Christ Church
Consecrated 16 January 1844
Architecture
Heritage designation Grade II listed
Architect(s) Matthew Habershon
Groundbreaking 12 July 1838
Completed 1842
Closed 1976

Christ Church in Derby is a special building with a long history. It used to be a Church of England parish church. Today, it is known as the Serbian Orthodox Church of the Apostles St Peter and St Paul. This building is so important that it is a Grade II listed building. This means it is protected because of its historical or architectural value.

Building History: From Start to Present

Laying the Foundation Stone

The journey of Christ Church began a long time ago. On July 10, 1838, the very first stone, called the foundation stone, was laid. This important step was done by Sir William Evans, 1st Baronet. It marked the official start of building this church.

Designing and Opening the Church

The church was designed by an architect named Matthew Habershon. It took a few years to build. The church was officially opened and made sacred on January 16, 1844. This special ceremony was led by the Bishop of Lichfield.

Adding to the Church's Design

Later, in 1865, a new part was added to the church. This part is called the chancel. The chancel is usually the area around the altar in a church. After this addition, the church was opened again on February 16, 1865. The architects who worked on this addition were Giles and Brookhouse.

Renovations and Changes

The church had some updates in 1877. The old pews, which are like long benches for people to sit on, were taken out. They were replaced with new seating called stalls. The inside of the church was also redecorated. These changes were overseen by F J Robinson, an architect from Derby.

A New Purpose for the Building

In 1972, the church's local area, or parish, joined with another church called St. Peter's. Because of this, Christ Church was closed in 1976. The building was then sold in 1977. It was bought by the Serbian Orthodox Church. This is why it is now known as the Serbian Orthodox Church of the Apostles St Peter and St Paul.

The Church Organ

Inside the church, there is an old organ. This organ was made by Francis Booth in 1855. Sadly, it is not in good condition today. You can find more details about this organ on the National Pipe Organ Register.

People Who Played the Organ

Over the years, several people played the organ at Christ Church.

  • Tom G. Taylor was an organist around 1883.
  • Martyn Warsop played the organ in 1973.
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