Church of St Lawrence, Didmarton facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Church of St Lawrence
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Denomination	Church of England
Architecture
Heritage designation	Grade I listed building
Designated	6 September 1954
Administration
Benefice	Badminton
Diocese	Gloucester
Province	Canterbury

The Church of St Lawrence is an old and beautiful church located in Didmarton, a village in Gloucestershire, England. It belongs to the Church of England. This special building was first built a very long time ago, in the 13th century. This means it's over 700 years old! It's so important that it's officially protected as a Grade I listed building. This is the highest level of protection for historic buildings in England.

A Look Back in Time

This church has a long and interesting past. It was first built between the 12th and 13th centuries. Over the years, it has been changed and updated. In the 15th century, some parts were revised. Then, in the 18th century, it had a big makeover with lots of renovations.

Long ago, the church had special upper levels called galleries. These were for musicians, called minstrels, and for people who couldn't afford the more expensive seats, known as box pews. These galleries have since been removed.

In 1872, the church was thought to be no longer needed. However, in 1992, it was brought back to life! It was carefully restored and became the main church for the villages of Didmarton and Oldbury-on-the-Hill once again.

What the Church Looks Like

The Church of St Lawrence is made of stone and has a unique L-shape. Its roofs are covered with stone slates, which are thin pieces of stone. There is also a small bellcote, which is a tiny tower that holds a bell.

Inside, the church has several important parts. It includes a transept, which is a part that crosses the main body of the church. There is also a chancel, where the altar is, and a sanctuary, which is a sacred area around the altar.

You will find special seats inside called box pews. These are like small, enclosed boxes where families used to sit. There is also a tall, three-level oak pulpit. This is where the priest stands to give sermons. Behind the pulpit, you can see a decalogue. This is a display with the Ten Commandments written on it.

The font, used for baptisms, is also very old. Its base, or stem, dates back to the 12th century. The bowl, where the water is held, is from the 14th century. The wooden cover on top was added in the 18th century. It's amazing how different parts of the church come from different centuries!