Michael
Chapman, deputy to the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, representative of the Queen,
opened a year of celebration at the local Church in Epping Green by unveiling a
specially commissioned 150th anniversary stained glass window. Mr
Chapman wearing full military uniform , including ceremonial sword, unveiled
the colourful “Good Shepherd” window , which measures a massive 7ft tall by 6ft
wide . The window looks out over the village pond and road. The window was
designed by chapel member and villager Mary Deacon and made by local company
Tenby and Penny.
The standing
room only event also had guest speaker Peter Kerridge CEO of PREMIER CHRISTIAN RADIO and a
presentation was made to 91 year old church organist George McGowan , born in
Epping Green village and retiring from playing after 74 years!
Church
Minister Rev Paul Walker, 55, said “George
, along with his late wife Doris , has been a
pillar in the life of the Chapel . Almost 200 years ago another local couple were so concerned there was
no place of worship in the village they felt God calling them to be involved in
founding one! In the 1820’s a cottage
chapel was opened and then in 1862 the NEW church was built. 150 years later
Epping Green Chapel continues to be a thriving place of worship and centre for
activities within the community. Founded as a Church for all, the current
congregation is made up of young and old and of people from many church
backgrounds - C of E , Catholic , Free
Church ,plus people who have had no past church affiliation. We hope the
commissioning of the colourful “Good Shepherd” window will be a bright new landmark
to travellers and a sign of welcome for another 150 years!".
Check out the photos below:
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| Michael Chapman, Deacons Mary Deacon and Will Toye and Minister Rev. Paul Walker |
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| Organist George McGowan, 91, speaking at the service after winning an award. |
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| Unveiling the window. |
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| Our new stained glass window is now in place! |
Further details of ongoing celebration events at Epping Green Chapel can be found on our website – www.eppinggreenchapel.co.uk
or blogsite – eppinggreenchapel.blogspot.co.uk
God bless!
