Year 2000 Tapestry

Does it seem like 25 years since the Year 2k ?

I can still remember all the hype and build-up to the Millenium.

Of course those who are only now entering their 20s perhaps can't even begin to comprehend all the fuss, excitement and even concerns about Millennium 'bugs' and how the world's computers might all crash - there were a lot of people who foretold the turn of the century bringing nothing but Doom - with a capital D !

But St Marys Stelling commemorated in the most unusual way.

A Year 2000 tapestry, which hangs high on the wall close to the font, is the result of a huge project undertaken by Parishioners.

At the end of 1998, early 1999, “A Millenium Project” was suggested by the then Lay Minister, Sheila Porter. By February 1999, and with no other ideas put forward to mark the entrance into another century, the project of a tapestry based on the design of the east window was accepted. The window, of a simple top design, then comprises three panels of 36 clear glass panels each – (3 across and 12 down).

The suggestion was to recreate the top window design in patchwork, then each square would be embroidered with the name of members of the congregation. As well as the name, it would feature the acting role of the person within the church, a favourite passage of the Bible, a Christian symbol or, again, a symbol representing some of their family history, occupation or passion.

On display in the church is an album which records the journey – from the initial idea, to the finished splendid tapestry – proudly hanging on the wall of our beautiful old church.

Do visit the church and see this magnificent Tapestry - especially if you were involved in the project.