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St Michael the Archangel's Church, Retford facts for kids

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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
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 beautiful old church in Retford, Nottinghamshire, England. It's part of the Church of England and is considered a very important building, listed as Grade II* listed. This means it has special historical or architectural value.

A Look Back in Time

This church is very old! It was first built way back in the 1200s. Over the years, it has been changed and improved.

Important Renovations

In 1863, the church had a big makeover to fix and improve many parts. Later, in 1889, the chancel (the area around the altar) was made longer. Around 1910, a small room called a sacristy was added. This room is often used for storing church items or for priests to prepare. The church also got a new hall in 1978.

Working Together

St Michael's Church is part of a joint parish. This means it works closely with another church, All Hallows' Church, in a nearby place called Ordsall.

Inside the Church

When you step inside, you'll see some interesting features.

Chancel Screen

The chancel screen is a decorative barrier that separates the main part of the church from the chancel. This one was designed by Charles Hodgson Fowler in 1899.

Reredos Art

Behind the altar, there's a special decorated screen called a reredos. This one has a beautiful painting called "Adoration of the Magi" by Sir Ninian Comper. It shows the wise men visiting baby Jesus.

The Church Organ

The church has a large musical instrument called a pipe organ. It was made by Henry Willis in 1876. This type of organ uses air blown through pipes to make sound.

See also

  • Grade II* listed buildings in Nottinghamshire
  • Listed buildings in Retford
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