By Isle of Wight Observer
We were sorry to read Hazel Wyld’s letter in last week’s IW Observer, about her observations on the revitalised Newport Minster. As part of the overall project to make the Minster an accessible space, welcoming to all, we have tried to retain the element of peace and tranquillity. As part of the renovations, our Lady chapel – The Elizabeth Chapel – is set out for private prayer and contemplation. There are candles available for those who wish light a candle as part of their prayer. Thanks to Mrs Wyld’s letter, we have now placed kneelers in the chapel for those who prefer to kneel in prayer.
Prayer remains at the at the heart of Newport Minster; there are prayer cards available in a number of areas for those who cannot find the words to ask for help and support. Our pastoral team is available most mornings for those who would like someone to pray with, and a prayer request box is available.
The Church has always had to adapt in order to survive, and that means returning our church building to the centre of the community, providing a welcoming space for all and, at the same time, the building has to earn its keep. In the 18th century that meant giving over some of the church to house Newport’s fire engine. In the 21st century that means meeting people where they are at, this might be a smart modern coffee shop, a play café for toddlers and carers, or the provision of a quiet space. This gives people a reason to enter the space, which hopefully translates to a moment of prayer or reflection, or builds a stronger connection to the building and its heritage.
The key to building faith is in the creation of these relationships, and we have tried to create these spaces in our newly-refurbished building.
The Minster has been a worship space for almost 1,000 years, and has relied on the generosity of the town of Newport and its people. If you step back to those early days of Newport’s history, the congregation would have stood or sat on straw – no pews, no coffee after the service, and the altar rail could be used to tether your goat! The way we use the building has changed over the years but, hopefully, people can still come to find solace, a friendly face and a place to meet and worship God.
Part of the challenge of modern worship is making the church available to everybody. We know we won’t get it right for everyone first time. However, we will always endeavour to find a common ground that enables as many people as possible to feel safe within the church space.
We rely on an amazing team of volunteers to open, maintain and fund-raise to keep the doors of these beautiful buildings open for everyone to enjoy, whatever their reason for visiting. We are a diverse team who bring our skills, expertise and life experiences to our various roles. There is a delicate balance, and we pray and give thanks for everyone giving their time to create this space.
We welcome everyone to visit the Minster; we are generally open for visitors weekday mornings from 10am-1pm. Sunday services take place at 11am.