Church of St Richard of Chichester

Introduction

Opened on 21st January 1915, the church is officially the Benson Memorial church after Mgr Benson.

History

The foundation stone was laid on 16th May 1914 by Mgr Robert Hugh Benson, who lived locally and helped fund construction. The church was built by the Buntingford branch of Jacklin & Co under Mr G. Handy, the local manager. The porch was added in 1934 and the tower in 1939. The completed structure was consecrated by the Right Rev. Edward Myers, Bishop of Lamus, on Wednesday 5th June 1940.

The Great flood at Buntingford on 16th September 1968 penetrated the church and presbytery to a depth of four or five feet, distorting the wood block flooring of the nave. Later, but not as a result of the flood, the tower needed structural repairs costing some £3000. The tower is 45 feet high with a copper spire of 35 feet. The ceiling of the nave is of barrel vault type, finished entirely in oak.

Architecture and furnishings

The floor of the sanctuary is marble mosaics, while the altar and reredos are of Bath Stone with yellow Sienna marble. It was hoped also to include a piece of stone from St Richard's own Cathedral at Chichester, but the Chapter of Chichester refused to supply it. Arthur Young designed the church as a modern Gothic building in early perpendicular style, using St Aldhelm Box Ground stone from Bath and flint.

Parish life

The parish runs groups for prayer, social action, Sacramental preparation, youth work and support of others. Children in Year 3 and older who live in the parish and attend regular mass are invited to prepare for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The sacrament of Confession is available at St Richard's on request. To have a child baptised, three months' notice must be given and the parents must attend Mass every Sunday.

The Church requires a minimum of six months' notice for a couple to marry. Active members of the church eligible to be confirmed, especially those from the age of 13 onwards, can make enquiries after any of the Masses.