DAVID ADAMS finds a website that delves deep into England’s Christian past…
Christianity in England has a rich and storied history – from the arrival of St Augustine at Canterbury in 597 to its instrumental role in the Protestant Reformation and the founding of Methodism in the late 18th century. This expansive website – the work of one Mark Shephard – delves deep into that heritage, providing a database of locations across the country which are significant due to their connection to influential figures from throughout the history of the church. It’s not a guide to buildings (despite the fact entries are broadly organized that way) – as is pointed out on the homepage, this is a site about people – but, as the writer says you will find answers to a range of questions – from where Dark Ages saint Cuthbert was buried to who wrote the hymn Abide in Me and in which London church Rev Chad Varah founded the telephone hotline organisation known as the Samaritans. The entries, which are listed by county, are easily digestible and, while the site is by no means comprehensive (given the scope of the subject matter, that’s very understandable), this is nonetheless a great place to start when wanting to know more about England’s Christian roots whether you are a tourist, student or simply interested. Oh, and while this website covers England only, there is a separate site for Wales.
