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St Michael the Archangel’s Church, Retford
St.Michael's church, West Retford - geograph.org.uk - 78966.jpg
St Michael the Archangel’s Church, Retford
53°19′26.32″N 0°56′51.12″W / 53.3239778°N 0.9475333°W / 53.3239778; -0.9475333
OS grid reference SK 70234 81313
Location Retford
Country England
Denomination Church of England
Churchmanship Anglo Catholic
History
Dedication St Michael the Archangel
Architecture
Heritage designation Grade II* listed
Specifications
Bells 6 (full circle)
Administration
Parish Ordsall & Retford, St Michael
Deanery Bassetlaw & Bawtry
Archdeaconry Newark
Diocese Southwell and Nottingham
Province York

St Michael the Archangel's Church is a historic church located in Retford, Nottinghamshire, England. It is part of the Church of England. This church is considered very important because it is a Grade II* listed building. This means it has special historical or architectural value.

History of the Church Building

The church building has a long and interesting past. It was first built way back in the 13th century, which means it started being constructed in the 1200s! Over the years, it has been changed and updated.

Major Changes Over Time

  • In 1863, the church had a big makeover. This is called a "restoration," where parts of the building are repaired or rebuilt to make them look new again.
  • Later, in 1889, the "chancel" was made longer. The chancel is the part of the church where the altar is located.
  • Around 1910, a "sacristy" was added to the northeast side. A sacristy is a room in a church where priests prepare for services and where sacred items are kept.
  • Much more recently, in 1978, a church hall was built. This hall is used for community events and meetings.

Working Together: A Joint Parish

St Michael's Church also works closely with another church. It is part of a "joint parish" with All Hallows' Church in Ordsall. This means they share resources and work together to serve their communities.

Inside the Church

The inside of St Michael's Church has some beautiful and important features.

The Chancel Screen

When you look towards the front of the church, you will see a special screen. This is called the chancel screen. It was designed by an architect named Charles Hodgson Fowler in 1899. This screen helps separate the chancel from the rest of the church.

The Reredos and Painting

Behind the altar, there is a decorative screen called a reredos. This reredos has a beautiful painting on it. The painting shows the "Adoration of the Magi." This artwork was created by Sir Ninian Comper, a famous artist.

The Church Organ

St Michael's Church is home to a wonderful musical instrument. It has a large pipe organ. This organ was built in 1876 by a company called Henry Willis. It is a "two manual" organ, which means it has two keyboards for the organist to play.

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