Church of St Mary and St Alkelda, Middleham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary and St Alkelda, Middleham |
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| Location | Church Street, Middleham, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 4PQ |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Previous denomination | Roman Catholic Church |
| History | |
| Status | Active |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Parish church |
| Years built | 13th century |
| Specifications | |
| Capacity | 200 |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Middleham with Coverdale and East Witton and Thornton Steward |
| Archdeaconry | Archdeaconry of Richmond and Craven |
| Diocese | Diocese of Leeds |
The Church of St Mary and St Alkelda is a historic Church of England church. It is located in the town of Middleham, in North Yorkshire, England. This church is very old, dating back to the 13th century. It is also a Grade I listed building, which means it is a very important historical site.
Contents
History of the Church
How the Church Became Collegiate
In 1477, a special change happened for the church. Richard, Duke of Gloucester, made it a collegiate church. He later became King Richard III of England. A collegiate church is one that has a group of clergy (like priests) living together. They would pray and perform services daily.
A Royal Connection
Richard III's young son, Edward of Middleham, Prince of Wales, might have been buried here. Edward died in 1484, possibly at nearby Middleham Castle. The church had a special group of people working there. This group included a dean, six chaplains, four clerks, and six choristers.
Changes Over Time
The church was a "Royal Peculiar" until 1856. This meant it was directly under the King's authority, not the local bishop. After 1856, a Rector took the place of the Dean. On February 15, 1967, the church was officially named a Grade I listed building. This protects its historical importance.
The Church Today
Current Church Life
Today, the Church of St Mary and St Alkelda is still an active church. It is part of a larger group of churches called a benefice. This benefice includes Middleham, Coverdale, East Witton, and Thornton Steward. The church belongs to the Diocese of Leeds. This is a larger area managed by the Church of England.
Church Traditions
The church follows a "Conservative Evangelical" tradition. This means it has certain beliefs and practices within the Church of England. The church has chosen not to reject the ordination of women as priests. This means women can serve as priests there.
Notable People
Past Rectors
- Harry Topham: He was a clergyman and also a cricketer. He served as the rector of this church from 1903 to 1925.
See also
- Grade I listed buildings in North Yorkshire (district)
- Listed buildings in Middleham
