St Stephen’s Cheltenham is looking at how its building could have a wider role in the community, while continuing to hold regular worship.
A team at the church are exploring the idea of developing it as an arts and community centre, with activities taking place alongside its existing services.
Christine Haseler, Treasurer, said: “The idea to develop the church as an art centre is still at an early stage, but some of the work has already begun, including the refurbishment of the church’s Memorial Chapel.
“I’ve been going to a church since I was young, and since becoming treasurer, I’ve only just come to appreciate how much work goes in to looking after a church.”
The Memorial Chapel had been unusable for several years because of structural problems. Repairs have now been completed and the chapel was rededicated in July.
The church is now looking at how the adjoining space could be used by groups outside the congregation, with early interest in activities such as yoga and music sessions.
“I think it’s just beautiful,” Christine said. “If you’re doing yoga and looking at the Memorial Chapel, I think it’s such a peaceful space. Meditation would be amazing in here.”
The space also has a good upright piano, making it particularly suitable for music activities. On 24 September, the church is starting a weekly baby music session for babies aged 0 to 12 months and their carers. The sessions will use the piano for classical music, alongside action songs using shakers and sensory play.
For these baby music sessions, St Stephen’s is linking up with the Department of Hope, Joy and Wonder, a shop and café just around the corner. The café will bring barista coffee to the sessions at the church for anyone who prefers that to the free Nescafé and tea that will also be provided.
Fiona Brown, St Stephen’s organist and member of the church steering group, said:
“Music could have an even wider role as St Stephen’s develops its community use. The church has recently bought a new Hoffmann grand piano to replace its failing existing piano in the nave. This means the church can now confidently invite and encourage musicians to give concerts involving the piano. The new piano will also continue to be used in worship alongside our church organ, as well as for rehearsals and larger choral events.
“We have a very fine 1912 Norman and Beard organ, which is a much-loved part of the character and worship of St Stephen’s. The organ is currently in very poor condition and urgently needs restoration, which is something the church hopes to undertake as part of the wider project.
“Restoring the organ would not only support worship but could also open up further possibilities for the community, including organ recitals, teaching, orchestral and choral concerts, and even accompanying silent films.”
A community impact assessment has also been carried out across the local area – local people have been interviewed about what they might use the building for. The responses were mostly positive, and people were keen to see what could be provided.
They are inviting bookings from community organisers such as yoga instructors, children’s groups and music groups.
“The aim is to create a welcoming environment where people can enjoy the building and take part in activities whether or not they are members of the congregation,” Christine said.
“So many people come into the church and say ‘this is such a beautiful church. I didn’t even realise this was here’. The hope is that the income from the wider use of the building can go towards improvements that benefit the whole community, including better access and more environmentally friendly heating.”
Fundraising has begun to support this mission. If you’d like to find out more about hiring the building, contact Christine at moc.kooltuo@sahenitsirhc.
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