Hellingly Church

You will be able to pick up a printed booklet of the history on your visit to the Church -- here is a short summary. Hellingly Church sits on a saxon mound; only clearly seen from the air. It is circular with four gates and paths forming the ancient symbol of the Cross.  The church is first recorded by the White Canons who based their preaching and missionary work in the area from 1180

Clergy. Our clergy through the centuries are listed in the church - some with their misdemeanours. In 1372 thomas Cotyngham was excommunicated for failing to pay his subsidy and in 1656 William Lancaster was turned out as a non-conformist.

Asylum. A change of life in the parish was the building of Hellingly Hospital (1903-1994). It had a vast community of patients and staff and a number worshipped here regularly. In the NW corner of our church is a memorial window to Sarah Ann Shorrock, Hospital Matron from 1034-1942.

The Building. In the Chancel is a strip of 12th century carved stone, above it are windows, transitional between Norman round arched forms and new pointed arches of Gothic. The nave was rebuilt  in plain 14th century style and ornate windows inserted later. Stonework in the walls is varied in date.

Brass and Glass. Biblical scenes in Victorian stained glass fill the window at the end of the south aisle for John Olive, vicar for 36 years, who died in 1866. 20th century glass depicts our patrons and the Lord Jesus in the East windows. King David and St Cecilia are in the North aisle for Thomas Stroud, organist 1897-1932. A medieval brass of an unknown lady with her greyhound is near the altar rail.