Fears one of the most recognisable historic churches in the Black Country is on the verge of closing
There are fears one of the most recognisable historic churches in the Black Country is on the verge of closing.
The landmark St Bartholomew's Church, Wednesbury, no longer has father and this week its church hall told community groups, including the Brownies, they could no longer meet there.
The Anglican church has also stopped taking bookings for weddings or baptisms, however, weddings already booked will take place.
There has been a church on the site since 1088, then a Medieval church was the centre of the community and Victorians built the splendour of the current building which is one of the most familiar sights in the Black Country.
Sitting on top of Church Hill, St Bartholomew's has some of finest stained glass windows in the region, historic Medieval furnishings and is part of the Diocese of Lichfield.
Reverend Mark Danks left the church in December and has not been replaced forcing services to be cancelled and members of the congregation leading Sunday services.
Wednesbury's Ian Cadwallader said: "I know the congregation have been trying to run small sessions but without a father people don’t go. ]
"I know the volunteers have been working hard and all over Christmas to provide some normality but they can’t do everything. I feel so sorry for all those working so hard to try and keep the church alive. I really hope something came be done."
He added: "What can we do to try and save this as it would be awful to see St Bart's close."
Wednesbury North Councillor Luke Giles has been inundated with calls about the church and the hall's "uncertain" future.
He said: "The church are having a meeting next week with the Diocese to discuss the future of the church. Can I just clarify, at this point, the church is not closing.
"However, the future of the church is uncertain until the meeting next week. The hall will be closing temporarily as the person that manages the hall has stepped down."
Knowing the church's special place in the hearts of the people Wednesbury Councillor Giles urged people to remain calm.
He said: "There are a lot of comments that are going round that are not factual and this is not helping the church. So at this moment in time until we have clarity from the church please allow the church to look into this and find a solution.
"If you would like to support your churches, please go to their services."
The Express & Star has contacted the Diocese of Lichfield for a comment concerning the future of St Bartholomew's Church.
There is a service at the church this Sunday at 10am.
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