Unexpected find becomes a ‘rallying call’ for church

A New Hope for St. Andrew’s Church

The discovery of a ceremonial trowel has brought renewed energy to the restoration efforts at St. Andrew’s Church in Netherton. This historic church is set to commemorate the 200th anniversary of its foundation stone next year, but it currently faces significant challenges. The project requires £1.7 million in repairs and is listed on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register.

Reverend Richard Hackett sees the silver trowel as a powerful symbol of the church’s legacy. He believes it was the very tool used to lay the foundation stone, and he views its discovery as an inspiring moment that can help tell the story of the church and the community it serves.

“We’re taking this as a rallying call to step forward,” Hackett said. He admitted that the scale of the work ahead was daunting, making the timing of the trowel’s discovery particularly meaningful.

The trowel came to light through an unexpected phone call. A descendant of the original vicar, living in Pershore, had found the item in his stepmother’s cupboard. Hackett described the situation as “the craziest thing” and noted that it was always the last place one would think to look.

Symbolism and Significance

For Hackett, the trowel holds deep symbolic value. It represents the hands of those who built the church and carries with it the stories of generations of people connected to it. This connection is especially important given that Netherton is among the most deprived areas in the country.

Hackett posed a critical question to the church community: “How does this church lay the foundation stones again for the people of Netherton right now?” He hopes that the trowel will inspire new narratives about the crafts and trades that have historically been part of the area.

Next year, as the church celebrates the anniversary of the foundation stone being laid, Hackett aims to use the trowel as a catalyst for sharing stories of the church’s impact over the years. His goal is to highlight the significance of St. Andrew’s not just as a building, but as a cornerstone of the community.

Funding and Future Goals

To support the necessary repairs, the church has been actively applying for grants. Hackett emphasized that the ultimate objective is to remove the church from the Heritage at Risk Register by 2030, which coincides with the 200th anniversary of the church’s opening.

This milestone would mark a significant achievement for the congregation and the broader community. It would also serve as a testament to the resilience and dedication of those working to preserve the church’s legacy.

Community Engagement and Outreach

In addition to seeking financial support, the church is focusing on community engagement. Hackett believes that involving local residents in the restoration process is essential for fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the church.

He encourages people to follow the church’s journey through various platforms, including social media channels like Facebook, X, and Instagram. These platforms offer updates on the progress of the restoration and opportunities for involvement.

By highlighting the history and significance of St. Andrew’s Church, Hackett hopes to create a stronger connection between the church and the people of Netherton. The trowel, as a tangible link to the past, serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving such landmarks for future generations.

Through continued efforts and community support, St. Andrew’s Church stands a better chance of securing its place as a vital part of the local heritage. The discovery of the trowel has not only provided a boost to the restoration project but has also reignited a sense of purpose and determination among those involved.