Come and steep yourself in the history of our building from Mediaeval times since when St Mary's Church has served the local community of Thornton-in-Craven. Our building boasts one of the finest stained glass windows designed by the renowned Charles Kempe in the country. The ancient series of church chants called The York Processional is based on a unique manuscript nearly 650 years old, and contains church music sung in processions during services, and was composed for our church. These chants were used each week in parish churches all over the north of England, for several centuries until the upheavals of the Reformation.The manuscript is now housed in the Bodleian Library at Oxford. Enjoy the peace and quiet of our churchyard, which holds an ancient Well and the unmarked graves of Cromwell soldiers killed locally in battle.Enjoy some of our refreshments alongside our Art exhibition where you can browse and purchase original artwork created by local artists.
Following our Sung Holy Communion Service on 14th November 2022 there will be a short Service of Remembrance at the War Memorial.All welcome to join us for one or both Services
A Book of Condolence are now open at St Mary's Church, Thornton. All are welcome to record a memory or message on the death of our late Sovereign Lady, Queen Elizabeth.St Mary's Church is open between 10am and 4pm today to share its history as part of English Heritage Weekend.At 4pm there will be a said Service of Commemoration with prayers for the soul of Queen Elizabeth. All are welcome to attend whatever your denomination and no matter if wouldn't normally declare one.We come together as a Nation in mourning the death of our late Queen.God save the King!
H.M. Queen Elizabeth II 21st April 1926 - 8th September 2022(Reigned from 6th February 1952) It having pleased Almighty God to take to His Mercy Our late Most Gracious Sovereign Lady Queen Elizabeth of blessed memory, who departed this life this day, at Balmoral.Lord God, when thou givest to thy servants to endeavour any great matter, grant us also to know that it is not the beginning, but the continuing of the same, until it be thoroughly finished, that yieldeth the true glory; through him who, for the finishing of thy work, laid down his life for us, our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Amen.Sir Francis DrakeMay she rest in peace and rise in gloryGod Save the King
