Octagon Chapel, Norwich facts for kids
The Octagon Chapel is a special church in Norwich, England. It's a place where people who follow Unitarian beliefs gather. This chapel is located on Colegate street in the county of Norfolk. It is also part of a larger group called the General Assembly of Unitarian and Free Christian Churches.
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A Look Back: The Chapel's Story
The Octagon Chapel is a very old and important building. It was finished in 1756. The architect who designed it was Thomas Ivory. The chapel is shaped like a perfect octagon, which means it has eight sides. It is a great example of a building style called Neo-Palladian architecture. This style was popular in the 1700s and was inspired by old Roman and Greek buildings.
This chapel is also a "grade II* listed building." This means it's a very important historical building in England. It is protected to make sure it stays safe for the future.
The chapel was first built for a group called Presbyterians. But today, it serves the Unitarian community. Many people have been connected to the chapel over the years. For example, Theophilus Browne was a minister here in 1809. Other important people like William Taylor, John Taylor, and Harriet Martineau were also linked to the chapel. A composer named Edward Taylor was even the organist for a time. In 1812, he published a book of music for the chapel's services.
What Unitarians Believe
Unitarians have a special way of looking at faith. They do not follow strict rules or a set list of beliefs. Instead, they find inspiration from many different places. This includes teachings from various religions. They also learn from science and the arts. It's a very open and welcoming approach to spirituality.
Chapel Community Activities
The Octagon Chapel is a lively place with many activities for its community. These groups help people connect and share experiences.
- Bring and share lunches: People bring food to share and eat together.
- Craft Group: A chance to get creative and make things.
- LGBTQ+ Coffee and cake: A friendly gathering for coffee, cake, and conversation.
- Engagement groups: Different groups that meet to discuss ideas and get involved.
Octagon Concert Series
The Octagon Chapel has a long history with music. It is known for hosting the Octagon Concert Series. These concerts are special because the performers do not get paid. All the money raised from the concerts goes to help different charities. It's a wonderful way to enjoy music and support good causes at the same time.
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