Exploring the history and heritage of this hidden gem that has been the centre of the rural village of North Ockendon for a thousand years. If you could help with this project or would like to join others who have an interest or passion for this area, then come along to our next meeting on: 

Saturday 3rd August at 10:30 AM in the Church Hall.

All welcome.

At their first meeting on Saturday 13th July, the history study group began to explore the history and growth of Christianity at North Ockendon through an investigation of the naming of St Cedd’s well adjacent to the churchyard.

History tells us that St Cedd was Appointed as Bishop of the East Saxons around 630 AD and commissioned to convert the East Saxons from paganism to Christianity. He established monasteries at Bradwell and probably East or West Tilbury and said to have used the many springs in the area for baptism. It is possible that the spring next to the churchyard at North Ockendon was used for such baptisms. St Cedd established many churches in East Mercia (Essex including London) and is generally acclaimed for his qualities of personal dedication, welcoming inclusion, negotiation and persuasion.

Hidden Gem study group, PDF

Download