Stalybridge church celebrates 180th anniversary

St George's Church in Stalybridge is celebrating the 180th anniversary of its consecration with two special services and an online family quiz this Sunday (25 October).

The ‘new’ St George’s Church on Church Walk was consecrated on June 24, 1840, and continued alongside ‘old’ St George’s on Cocker Hill until 1967 when ‘old’ St George’s closed. 

‘Anniversary Sunday’ is normally celebrated on the Sunday closest to June 24, but this year celebrations were postponed to this month due to Covid-19.

The vicar of St George’s, The Rev Penny Warner said: “We had hoped that by October we might be able to celebrate more fully and although that’s not the case, we are determined to mark the occasion, albeit simply; giving thanks for the past and looking to the future. We’ll make up for it at the 200 year mark!”

St George’s carefully reopened for prayer and for public worship as soon as it was possible and has continued to hold services and funerals in church, and to provide pastoral care and support. 

Rev Penny Warner 

The congregation continue to support Tameside East Foodbank and recently had a successful Harvest appeal for The Booth Centre, supporting the homeless in central Manchester. Looking towards the coming months plans are being made to seek to offer support for local residents and organisations over winter and beyond.

“St George’s is a community building, and we are here for everyone. We are striving to continue to be a place of sanctuary, love and care in the midst of our community, especially during these difficult times,” added the Rev Penny.

To find out more about St George’s past and present, you can contact the vicar on 07393 420763 or visit www.stg.org.uk

A history of the two St George’s is available in Paul Denby’s book ‘Two into One Must Go’ - copies are available from St George’s.

Main image:

LANDMARK DATE: The Rev Penny Warner at St George's Church in Stalybridge.