The Centenary
2009 sees the start of the Centenary celebrations of St Martin’s Church. These celebrations began on 4th October 2009 when Bishop John came as Celebrant for the Sung Eucharist and to share in the service of thanksgiving for the laying of the Foundation Stone on 9th October 1909.
During the next two years there will be various open days, social events and occasions to celebrate 100 years in the life of the church – but also an opportunity to take stock spiritually and address the mission ministry to the local community and further afield.
In this connection the Standing Committee is co-ordinating the different innovations and initiatives e.g.
The History – compiled in 1986 to commemorate 75 years of the church is to be revised /reprinted and published as second edition together with an up-to-date Visitor’s Guide The Magazine Committee intends to research and publish articles about aspects of the parish and church:
- How many rectors and rectories have we had?
- How has the organ developed since first installed in 1928?
- What part did the church play in the war effort?
- How many weddings and baptisms have taken place? etc.
If you are interested in this research – remembering facts, anecdotes or events please contact the Magazine Editor. We will put material on the website.
Social events, visits and outings including one to a “sister” church St Alban, Bournemouth designed by the same architect, G H Fellowes Prynne, to almost exactly the same plan as St Martin’s The resemblance, inside and out, is quite uncanny though St Alban’s is two years older and the parishioners have just concluded their Centenary year!Selling memorabilia to mark the occasion including a range of notelets and greetings cardsEstablishing a legacy within the church commemorating the Centenary when the celebrations are over
The two years will culminate in a service celebrating the Centenary of the Consecration of St Martin’s Church on Saturday 11th June 1911 to be followed by a buffet lunch.
Events and activities will be publicised on the website.
