Spring is a time of renewal and hope.
Along St Mary’s churchyard path, crocuses and daffodils lift their golden trumpets to welcome visitors. A Silver Award Eco Church, St Mary’s is cared for by a dedicated team committed to nurturing its natural environment. Among ancient graves and venerable yew trees, birds, insects, wildflowers and small mammals find a precious refuge, while birdsong drifts through the church walls into quiet, reflective spaces.
Inside, spring sunlight pours through Sir Ninian Comper’s beautiful Baptismal Window above the children’s corner. Dedicated by the children of the parish in 1929, it depicts Jesus holding a child, surrounded by delicately rendered wildflowers, butterflies, birds, dogs and fish. Comper, a highly acclaimed architect whose family originated in Pulborough, is represented here by three windows, shared with his son Sebastian. Together they contribute to the church’s Grade I listed status. Sir Ninian famously signed his work with the image of a wild strawberry, in memory of his father.
Nature, however, can also be challenging. Perpetual rain and frost slowly erodes the church’s soft sandstone, wearing away carved details shaped by generations past. Yet, just as spring brings hope, plans are in place to restore these ancient stone structures. This careful work will ensure the church con tinues to enhance our village and stand, as it has for centuries, in harmony with the natural world that surrounds it.
For more information on forthcoming events at St Mary’s church in Pulborough including the community barn dance please visit www.friendsofpulboroughparishchurch.org
Written by Laura Batchelor, on behalf of the Friends of Pulborough Parish Church.