St Pancras Church, Kingston near Lewes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Pancras Church |
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| 50°51′23″N 0°01′28″W / 50.8563°N 0.0245°W | |
| Location | The Street, Kingston near Lewes, East Sussex BN7 3PD |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| History | |
| Status | Parish church |
| Dedication | Pancras of Rome |
| Dedicated | 13th century |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Active |
| Heritage designation | Grade II* |
| Style | Decorated Gothic |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Kingston, St Pancras |
| Deanery | Lewes and Seaford |
| Archdeaconry | Lewes and Hastings |
| Diocese | Chichester |
| Province | Canterbury |
St Pancras Church is a historic church located in Kingston near Lewes, a village in East Sussex, England. It is a parish church, which means it serves the local community. The church building was constructed a very long time ago, in the 13th century. Today, it is recognized as a Grade II* listed building, showing its special historical importance.
History of St Pancras Church
The church was built in the 1200s, making it hundreds of years old! It was constructed using stone and flint, which are common building materials in that area. The church has a main area called the nave, a special area near the altar called the chancel, a tall tower on the west side, and a covered entrance called a south porch.
Over the years, the church has faced some challenges. It was hit by lightning twice, first in 1865 and again in 1874. Despite this, the building has stood strong. It was officially given its Grade II* listed status on August 20, 1965. This status helps protect the church and its history for future generations.
What's Inside the Church?
Inside St Pancras Church, you can find many interesting and old items. The table used for communion is from the Elizabethan era, which was during the time of Queen Elizabeth I. There is also a wooden chest from the Jacobean period, named after King James I.
The church tower holds three very old bells. One of these bells was made by a bell-maker named Walter Wimbis. You can also see some valuable silver items. There is a chalice (a cup) and a paten (a small plate) that date back to 1568. Other silver pieces, including another chalice, paten, and a flagon (a container for liquids), were made between 1872 and 1874. There is also a silver dish for collecting alms (donations) from around 1700.
A special feature inside the church is a memorial window. This window honors Michael Scott, a clergyman who was an important activist against apartheid.
The Church Community
St Pancras Church is part of a group of churches called the United Benefice. This group includes the churches in Iford, Rodmell, and Southease. The church records, which keep track of important events like births, marriages, and deaths, began in 1654.
See also
- List of places of worship in Lewes (district)
