The National Churches Trust has shared news on the winners of the National Church Awards 2023.
… enormous privilege to be talking about some of the wonderful churches…
The National Churches Trust writes:
Over 200 churches were nominated this year for the National Church Awards from across the UK, from which a judging panel selected the 45 finalists. From eco-churches to community cafés, running tower tours to hosting festivals and concerts, the finalists made an impressive and diverse list. There have been churches, chapels and meeting houses of all different sizes, styles and traditions, all showing that they do amazing things.
Congratulations to all our winners, as well as everyone who strives to help their local church to be the star of their community.
The National Church Awards was held in the presence of our Vice Patron, His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO. We are hugely grateful to our wonderful hosts Hugh Dennis and Canon Ann Easter, who led us through the announcements with warmth and humour. With special thanks to the Pilgrim Trust, Marsh Charitable Trust and the Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors Association, who have partnered with us and to the Mercers’ Company who generously gave us such a magnificent venue and delicious tea.
Our judging stages have brought together representatives from heritage organisations, denominations and churches, sector experts and individuals working in the awards category fields.
We’re extremely grateful to everyone who has been involved…..
Hugh Dennis opened the ceremony by saying:
“Churches have an amazing story to tell. They are some of our most beautiful and historically important places – they literally hold the history of this country. The nominations this year have been fantastic. All offer wonderful community support, open up their buildings and become places of pilgrimage and tourism alongside their role as places of Christian worship. We’ve seen old buildings steeped in heritage and new buildings designed for modern use.”
Canon Ann Easter added:
“It’s an enormous privilege to be talking about some of the wonderful churches that bless communities across the UK. They are also just a place to be. To take time, sit quietly, say a prayer, and re-set for what’s next in your life. Churches seem to offer it all. So the National Churches Trust has decided it is high time that volunteers and churches were rewarded and we’ve seen over the last year how they have provided ‘warm spaces’ for those struggling with energy prices, foodbanks for people in need and space for national events of both remembrance and celebration.”
