St Martin's Church, Sherwood facts for kids

St Martin's Church is a special church located in Sherwood, Nottingham. It's part of the Church of England and is known as a parish church, which means it serves the local community. The building itself is quite important, as it's a grade II listed building. This means it has historical or architectural importance and is protected.

A Look Back: The History of St Martin's Church

St Martin's Church first opened its doors in 1937. It was designed by an architect named Edward Heazell. He chose a unique style called Byzantine style, which is known for its grand domes, arches, and often colorful decorations, inspired by ancient Roman and Eastern Christian art.

The church was officially opened and blessed on February 6, 1937. This special ceremony is called a "consecration." It was led by the Bishop of Southwell, Henry Mosley.

Helping the Community

Today, St Martin's Church is a busy place that helps people in many ways. It runs the Nourish Sherwood Project, which provides food for those who need it. There are also groups for young children and new parents, like Jolly Tots for Toddlers and Bumps to Babies.

The church holds regular services for worship. These usually happen on Sundays at 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM. There's also a more relaxed "Unplugged worship" session, often on the fourth Sunday of the month at 6:00 PM.

Who Has Led the Church?

Over the years, many different leaders, called "incumbents," have served St Martin's Church. Here are some of them:

• Revd Edward Lysons
• Revd William Willatt (started in 1955)
• Revd Timothy Tyndall (started in 1960)
• Revd Ian Gatford (started in 1975)
• Revd Christopher Gale (started in 1984)
• Revd Sylvia Griffiths (started in 1999)
• Revd Bridget Baguley (started in 2017)
• Revd Sue Pendenque (started in 2024)

The Church Organ

The church has a beautiful pipe organ, which is a large musical instrument that makes sound using air flowing through pipes. This organ was put into St Martin's Church in 1937 by a company called Harrison and Harrison. Interestingly, it wasn't new then! It was first installed in another church, St. Luke's Church in Chelsea, back in 1907.

Meet the Organists

The organists are the people who play the organ during church services and events. Here are some of the talented organists who have played at St Martin's:

• Kendrick Partington (1947-1950) - He later became the organist at St Peter's Church, Nottingham.
• Mr. Vivian Grainger (1950-1960)
• Martin Barrett (2008–2015) - He was also a worship group leader and keyboardist.
• Richard Marsden (2015-2021)

See also

• Listed buildings in Nottingham (Sherwood ward)