St. Lawrence's Ancient Church

The ancient church of St. Lawrence is generally believed to date from AD 1095 - although this is partly guesswork based on the Norman window. It fell into disuse when St. Mary's was built, but was renovated and brought back into regular use about 40 years ago, under the guidance of the rector at the time.

St. Lawrence's plays an integral part in church life today, being used for services, including evensong, on a regular basis. A short Family Service takes place on the third Sunday of every month, at 11:30 am, which is specially suited to young families. The portable font enables baptisms to be performed, and weddings can be celebrated if a special licence is granted.

St. Lawrence's church plays an important role in the celebration of Holy Week, especially for the Maundy Thursday service, and the overnight vigil leading into Good Friday, when St. Lawrence's becomes the Garden of Repose. In December, worshippers from many of Caterham's churches join together for the ecumenical carol service , and in August, St. Lawrence Day is celebrated with an ecumenical service.

For some years until recently, the religious group "The Society of Friends" (Quakers) met every Sunday in St. Lawrence's church. As a memento of their association with the church, they presented a tree to be planted in the grounds (view photo in pop-up window).

It is indeed a spiritual centre for all.

The Guild of Friends of St. Lawrence's Church

The Guild of Friends of St. Lawrence's was formed in 1962. The main objects of the Guild are to assist in the preservation and maintenance of the church and churchyard so that it will remain a centre of spiritual activity for future generations.

The Guild runs Guided Tours of the church in summer. For 2008, the dates are:
          Sunday 27 July,     Sunday 17 August
          Monday 25 August (Bank Holiday),     Sunday 14 September
Tours start at 3pm: all proceeds go to the upkeep of the church.

Membership is open to people of all denominations on payment of an annual minimum subscription of £2. If you would like to become a "Friend", simply fill in an enrolment form which can be found on the table near the entrance to the Church. Send it with your subscription to:
          The Guild of Friends of St. Lawrence Church,
          c/o St. Paul's Centre (see contacts page).
 
 

Report on the Guild of Friends Annual Outing, 2007.
For more photos, see the Photo Gallery

Recently there has been some repair work done to the stonework of the church. Photos can be seen here

St.Mary's Homepage   |   St.Lawrence's Homepage   |   Chamber Organ   |   Legrew Family   |   Contact Us   |   Site Index