Church of St Michael, Brimpsfield facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Michael |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed building |
| Designated | 26 November 1958 |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Brimpsfield |
| Diocese | Gloucester |
| Province | Canterbury |
The Church of St Michael is an old Christian church located in Brimpsfield, a village in Gloucestershire, England. It was first built a very long time ago, in the 1100s! This church is special because it is a Grade I listed building. This means it is a really important historical building that needs to be protected.
Contents
History of the Church
How the Church Grew Over Time
The Church of St Michael started being built in the 12th century, which was the 1100s. Imagine how old that is! Later, in the 13th century (the 1200s), a part called the chancel was added. The chancel is the area around the altar where the clergy sit.
The tall tower you see today was built even later, in the 15th century (the 1400s). So, the church grew and changed over many hundreds of years.
Who Owned the Church?
For a long time, this church belonged to a group of nuns from a convent in Fontenay, France. Later, it became part of Eton College, a famous school in England.
Between 1833 and 1883, the church had a special balcony inside called a west gallery. Today, the church is part of the Diocese of Gloucester, which is a large area managed by the Church of England.
What the Church Looks Like
Building Materials and Parts
The Church of St Michael is made from limestone, a type of rock. Its roofs are covered with stone slates, which are flat pieces of stone. The church has several main parts:
- The nave: This is the main area where people sit during services.
- The chancel: As mentioned, this is near the altar.
- A vestry: A room used by the clergy for getting ready.
- A porch: An entrance area.
The church also has a tower at its eastern end.
Special Features Inside and Out
On the wall of the south doorway, there is a special old sundial called a mass dial. People used these dials long ago to tell the time for church services.
The tower of the church holds six bells. Imagine the sound they make! Two of these bells are very old. One was made in the 15th century (the 1400s), and another in the 16th century (the 1500s).
Inside the church, you can see an octagonal pulpit that was made in 1658. An octagonal shape means it has eight sides. The pulpit is where the priest stands to give sermons.
