Visitors to Constable Country's church invited to Bible marathon

CHELMSFORD diocese includes some of the loveliest countryside in Britain. One of our special areas is ‘Constable Country' which is situated in the picturesque Dedham Vale - a special landscape officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The rolling farmland, ancient woodlands and pretty villages have inspired artists and painters, including John Constable, who was born in the area and painted many of his works there. This rich heritage has made Dedham one of the UK's top visitor attractions.

St Mary the Virgin parish church in Dedham, pictured right, is a magnificent 15th century building which can be found in 26 of the paintings of John Constable. An original Constable painting, ‘The Ascension', now hangs in the church.

The church today is a thriving place of worship. It is a traditional church serving the whole community, including a large number of young people and visitors, in a contemporary way. Last year the church was visited by people from 76 different countries.

Visitors are being invited to take part in a Bible reading marathon starting on Thursday June 14. There are 773,692 words in the Bible and Katie Sambrook, a member of the congregation, is encouraging visitors to read a 15-minute chunk in their own language. She is also inviting every community group, the local primary school, shops, restaurants and other businesses, fellowship groups and local dignitaries, to take part. Whether reading a section in English, or another language, reading to a crowd of visitors

in an afternoon, or to a few supporters in the small hours of the morning, the whole project will take three whole days and nights non-stop. Contact the parish office on 01206 322136 for more information.

Another special event this year will be the annual lecture on June 7 at 8pm. The Very Revd John Hall, former national Church of England education officer, will speak on 'Do we have faith in our schools?' Previous lecturers have included Frank Field MP, Ann Widdecombe MP and the late Magnus Magnusson.

Visit www.dedham-parishchurch.org.uk

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