The small village of Thursford in North Norfolk is home to a beautiful and historic church, St Andrew’s, which has been a cornerstone of the community for centuries. Recently, the church has undergone a stunning transformation with the installation of a new stained-glass window, which not only adds to the church’s aesthetic appeal but also tells the story of the local villagers who contributed to its creation. The window is a unique and vibrant addition to the church, depicting various aspects of village life, including plants, tractors, and even a galloper horse from the Thursford steam museum. The story behind the window’s creation is a heartwarming one, with nine local families coming together to donate funds for the project in exchange for personalized panels that reflect their own lives and interests.
The window, which is located in the elevated Chad Chapel, is a masterpiece of stained and leaded glasswork, created by local artists Kieran and Rose Waits of Driftwood Glass Studio in Burnham Deepdale. The three-panel window is a kaleidoscope of colors, with a cross featured prominently at the top of the middle panel. Two of the panels were sponsored by the Cushing family, who have strong ties to the Thursford steam museum, and feature elements that reflect their love of steam engines and the annual Christmas show. The window is not only a beautiful work of art but also a “time capsule” that captures the essence of village life in Thursford. The project was made possible through the generosity of the local families, who donated a total of £29,000 to commission and install the window.
Despite having a small regular congregation of just 10 people, St Andrew’s Church is a hub of activity, hosting a range of events and concerts that attract visitors from across the region. The church is determined to stay relevant and vibrant, and is diversifying its events to keep people coming through the doors. From performances and meetings to murder mystery plays, the church is embracing its role as a community space, where people can come together to socialize, learn, and have fun. Warden Lance Sharpus-Jones, who masterminded the stained-glass window project, is passionate about making the church a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone. He believes that the church needs to move with the times and adapt to the changing needs of the community, and is committed to ensuring that St Andrew’s remains a vital part of village life.
The story of the stained-glass window is a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. The window is not just a beautiful work of art but also a reflection of the village’s history and traditions. The fact that local families came together to support the project is a heartwarming example of the strong sense of community that exists in Thursford. The window is a reminder that even in small villages, there is a deep sense of pride and ownership, and that people are willing to come together to create something truly special. As the church continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community, it is clear that the stained-glass window will remain a beloved and integral part of St Andrew’s Church for generations to come.
The church’s efforts to stay relevant and vibrant are not limited to the stained-glass window project. St Andrew’s is actively seeking to engage with the local community and attract new visitors to the church. The church hosts a range of events, from concerts and performances to coffee mornings and meetings. The church is also exploring new ways to use its facilities, including hosting murder mystery plays and other interactive events. By embracing its role as a community space, the church is able to bring people together and provide a sense of belonging and connection. Whether you are a local resident or just visiting the area, St Andrew’s Church is a must-visit destination, with its stunning stained-glass window and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
In conclusion, the stained-glass window at St Andrew’s Church in Thursford is a truly unique and special addition to the church, reflecting the lives and interests of the local villagers who contributed to its creation. The window is a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. As the church continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community, it is clear that the stained-glass window will remain a beloved and integral part of St Andrew’s Church for generations to come. If you have a news story or forthcoming event relating to Christians or a church in North Norfolk, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Tony Rothe at [email protected], who would be delighted to share your story with the wider community. With its stunning stained-glass window and warm, welcoming atmosphere, St Andrew’s Church is a true gem of North Norfolk, and a place that is sure to inspire and delight visitors of all ages.
