Forward Momentum Newsletter Issue 18

Renovation Update

It’s done! After a truly herculean effort by Bakers of Danbury, the project team and volunteers, St Mary’s was ready to reopen its doors on 29th March. Boxes were unpacked, furniture carefully put in place, and final touches, including the digital screen and last-minute electrical works, were completed just in time. With everything swept, polished and prepared, we were delighted to welcome over 270 guests for an historic and memorable Sunday afternoon service, led by Rev. Sue Hurley and featuring guest speaker, Archdeacon Kate Peacock.

Visitors enjoyed a video showcasing the project’s incredible journey, followed by a delicious hog roast and prosecco reception. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, everything ran seamlessly, with orderly queues and a lovely atmosphere as people chatted while waiting for food.

Activity Update

The following weekend, on Easter Saturday, the church reopened for a busy and vibrant Open Day. The new Cornerstone Café was in full swing, serving barista coffee alongside delicious homemade cakes and cookies. Visitors enjoyed guided trips up the bell tower, where our bell ringers shared their knowledge before inviting guests to try ringing for themselves. Meanwhile, our exhibition on The Way Forward project drew strong interest, including from a visitor representing Historic England. With the renovation now complete, we are hopeful that St Mary’s will soon come off the “Heritage at Risk” register.

The afternoon saw a wave of families descend on the church, drawn by the ever-popular Easter crafts and the infamous egg hunt, this year featuring a special appearance from “Batty” the bat. Children excitedly searched the church for the familiar character, who has featured in assemblies at Stebbing Primary School led by Esther and Caroline, our Heritage Engagement Officer and Historian in Residence.

The crafts were a huge hit, including a memorable inflatable chicken head! Rev. Sue Hurley and her fantastic team of volunteers did a truly outstanding job, and everyone we spoke to commented on what a wonderful afternoon it had been for the children.

Hot on the heels of the Open Day came an evening collaboration between the Stebbing Local History Society and The Way Forward project, which welcomed over 160 attendees. Guests enjoyed two fascinating talks: Ben from Colchester Archaeological Trust shared insights into discoveries made during the excavation works, while Anthea Hawden from Raking Light explored the medieval graffiti and its significance within St Mary’s. With visitors travelling from a range of locations and plenty of positive feedback, this first collaboration can certainly be counted a great success.

Our Games Night the following week was a quieter affair, perhaps due to the timing, so we’re planning to trial a daytime or weekend event next time.

And finally, what a treat we had on Saturday 25th April! Local concert band Take Note delivered a stunning programme of adventure-themed music, blending well-loved favourites such as Star Wars and Titanic with lesser-known pieces. With close to 100 guests in attendance—and a bar serving drinks and snacks—it was a fantastic showcase for the new, flexible space inside St Mary’s. One of the many highlights was the solo performance by teenager Bea Earle, who captivated the audience with an outstanding a cappella rendition of Come Fly With Me, alongside other pieces accompanied on guitar. Performing with confidence far beyond her years, she surely has a bright future ahead.

There’s plenty planned in the months ahead. We encourage you to check the “What’s On” section of The Way Forward website regularly.