St Martin's Church, Chipping Ongar facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Martin's Church, Chipping Ongar |
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| 51°42′14″N 0°14′47″E / 51.7039°N 0.2463°E | |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Website | St Martin's Church |
| History | |
| Founded | 11th century |
| Dedication | Saint Martin of Tours |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Parish church |
| Heritage designation | Grade I |
| Designated | 20 February 1967 |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Chipping Ongar with Shelley |
| Deanery | Ongar |
| Archdeaconry | Harlow |
| Diocese | Chelmsford |
| Province | Canterbury |
St Martin's Church is a special old church located in the town of Chipping Ongar, in Essex, England. It is a Church of England parish church, which means it is a local church serving the community. This beautiful building has been a part of Chipping Ongar for a very long time, offering a place for people to gather and worship.
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A Journey Through Time: The History of St Martin's Church
St Martin's Church is incredibly old, dating all the way back to the 11th century. That means it was built over 900 years ago! Imagine all the history this church has seen. It stood strong through many important events in England's past.
What Does "Grade I Listed" Mean?
This church is not just old; it is also a Grade I listed building. This is a very important title given to buildings in England that are considered to be of exceptional historical or architectural interest. Being Grade I listed means the church is protected, and any changes to it must be carefully approved to make sure its special features are kept safe for future generations. It was given this special protection on February 20, 1967.
Who Was Saint Martin of Tours?
The church is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours. He was a Roman soldier who lived in the 4th century. He became a Christian and later a bishop. Saint Martin is famous for his kindness and generosity. One well-known story tells how he cut his cloak in half to share with a poor, cold beggar. Churches are often named after saints to honor their lives and teachings.
St Martin's Church Today
Today, St Martin's Church continues to be an active part of the Chipping Ongar community. It serves as a parish church, which means it is the main church for the local area. People attend services, celebrate special occasions like weddings and baptisms, and find comfort there. The church is part of the Diocese of Chelmsford and is led by the Reverend Susan Cooper. It is a place where history and modern life come together.
