The Friends of Paignton Parish Church
The Friends were inaugurated in order:
1. To bring together in a
common fellowship of loyalty and devotion all those who care for the
Parish Church of Paignton and desire to take some part in suitably
maintaining its Fabric and Activities.
2. To endeavour to arouse
interest throughout the community in the Church which is one of
Torbay's outstanding historical buildings.
Membership of the Friends is an effective way of giving support to
Paignton Parish Church. Each member will receive periodic reports which
will keep him/her in contact with the Parish Church and its activities
and fund raising events.
This ancient church, dedicated to St. John Baptist, is the fourth
church to occupy this site. Of the first, possibly a wooden structure
nothing remains above ground, although its foundations have been
discovered. The second (Norman) church was built about 1100, but was
almost completely demolished and rebuilt about 1250. This (third)
church was transformed piecemeal throughout the Middle Ages into the
present building.
Its features include the South Transept (the 'Kirkham Chantry) which
boasts a screen of unusual interest and beauty, a reredos commemorating
a 17th century Paigntonian (Samuel Chapin) who founded the city of
Springfield, Massachusetts and a'Dog Door'in the North Door, a relic of
the days when churches were also used for secular purposes.
A lively Church centering around the Sunday morning Parish
Communion, its congregation is a fair cross-section of the community.
The Eucharist is celebrated daily, and Prayer Groups and Bible Study
Groups meet during the week. There is also a vigorous social life and a
happy family atmosphere.
For further informationplease use the contact form opposite.
