About Us

The Church of the Good Shepherd was founded as a mission chapel to the Church of St Mary the Virgin (Grade I) to serve the growing population of Furnham on the eastern fringes of the town centre. The land was purchased in 1871-2 and the first stage of construction, comprising the nave and the chancel, was completed in 1873.

The south aisle and porch, together with the north vestry and organ chamber were added the following year.

Although probably part of the original design, it was another two decades before the north aisle was added in 1895. The present pews were also added at this time.

It was consecrated in 1896, and the narthex at the west end was added prior to 1903.
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The building has remained virtually unaltered since, with the exception of the screening of a section of the north aisle to serve as a new vestry, and the insertion of a kitchen and toilets in the narthex.

The PCC hopes to undertake a reordering project in the near future, to update the existing kitchen and toilet facilities and to create a more usable space at the west end of the church.

The Good Shepherd Church serves the north east part of Chard. It's tradition has always been Anglo-catholic and it comes under the Episcopal care of the Bishop of Ebbsfleet. You will receive a warm and friendly welcome from our our small but enthusiastic congregation.