How it all started here at Pagham in 1963
 St. Ninian's Church, Pagham |
 The Poster announcing the First Service |
HISTORY OF PAGHAM UNITED REFORMED CHURCH
EXCEPT THE LORD BUILD ...
St. Ninian's Presbyterian Church, Pagham
A layman's account of its inception and upbuilding 1963 -72
by Francis S. W. de Winton
GENESIS
In the 1950's, Presbyterians seem to have spread westward along the coast of Sussex, helped no doubt by an influx of people of Scots origin who had either retired to the district or taken up work there.
In 1957, a church was started in a small way at Rustington and soon became the thriving church of St. Andrew's, the story of whose building is contained in a most interesting little volume entitled "The Open Door", compiled by Miss Joy Faulkner, a member of that church.
It is very relevant to note the many similarities between the building up of St. Andrew's and that of its daughter church, St. Ninian's.
By 1963, St. Andrew's was a flourishing concern, its Minister being the Rev. M. J. Davies, A.C.I.S., who was also a member (and later convener) of the Church Extension Committee of the Presbytery of the South Coast.
The convener was the Rev. William Cullen, B.A., Minister of St. Columba's Presbyterian Church, Gosport, and he and Mr. Davies worked closely together; they spent a considerable time in Horsham, Haywards Heath and other parts of West Sussex, exploring the possibilities of church extension, but with only limited success.
Mr. Davies was a member of the Littlehampton and Bognor Area Youth Committee of the West Sussex County Council, and Pagham first came to his notice at a meeting of that Committee on 5th February, 1963, when a representative from Pagham (a policeman, as Mr. Davies recollects) complained of the total lack of youth and community facilities in the area - "There is not even an effective church with a hall", he said.
Mr. Davies lost no time in visiting the area; and he noted that while Pagham was being quickly developed, it had little or no community provision. The Parish Church was rather out on a limb, well to the westward of the immediate development area.
Mr. Cullen joined Mr. Davies in further exploration of the Pagham area, and on 28th March they bad a meeting with the developers in Prowting's Estate Office (then standing on the, Church Way corner site opposite where St. Ninian's now stands).' Development plans were produced by Prowtings and the possibility of a church site was discussed. No approaches had been made to them by other church bodies.
About a month later the General Secretary, the Rev. A. L. Macarthur, M.A., M.Litt., was visiting a nearby church; and on April 22nd Mr. Cullen and Mr. Davies showed him round the Pagham area. He was impressed by the possibilities of establishing a cause in Pagham.
From then on, together and independently, as other duties allowed, Mr. Cullen and Mr. Davies spent many hours in the immediate area of Nyetimber, Pagham and Aldwick. During the course of exploration in the Pagham area, Mr. Davies called on various shops and inns to find out if people wanted a Free Church and to assess what sort of support was likely. At one shop, after a discussion in which it was agreed that a church would be welcome, the proprietor was asked by Mr. Davies if he would be likely to attend - the answer was "Not on your life".
The two Ministers called on the Minister of Linden Road Congregational Church, Bognor Regis, and were assured of his goodwill.
Mr. Davies also approached the Vicar of Pagham, who was most co-operative and who agreed that a Presbyterian Church in Pagham would be of great benefit to the Free Church people in the district.
Also the two Ministers looked at many plots of ground most of which were either too small, too expensive, or unsuitable in other ways. The land where the church now stands had the attraction of being on a bus route; enquiries made to the County Hall, Chichester, and to the owners of the land were not encouraging. However, quite undeterred, the two Ministers persevered.
Mr. Davies writes - "About this time there appeared in the visitors' book at St. Andrew's, Rustington, a name which, for some time, defied the efforts of myself and my elders to decipher. At last I was able to apprehend the visitor who turned out to be Captain F. S. W. de Winton, a retired Captain in the Royal Navy, who had close connections with St. Andrew's, Eastbourne, and lived at Craigweil near Bognor. I quickly visited him and his wife and told them of my interest in Pagham for church extension. Both welcomed the idea and agreed to be hosts to a small get-together of interested parties with whom I was in contact.
Progress was delayed then until the autumn, as I was in the U.S.A. that summer, but a meeting was eventually held at their home on 25th October, and I felt encouraged to go ahead".
At this meeting, convened by Mr. Davies, who was accompanied by the late Rev. L. J. Macpherson, M.A., then Minister of St. Columba's, Worthing, 13 folk were present, from Pagham, Aldwick, Craigweil, Bognor Regis and Chichester. Mr. Davies put the prospects, opportunities, and difficulties in the clearest manner, and this informal, happy meeting proved to be a milestone in the progress of the church. The meeting decided that we had the nucleus of a church, and that as soon as we could find some sort of a roof to cover us, we should start to hold services.
Not only was this necessary to be able to assess the need and the support for the project, but it was important to find a suitable site for the ultimate development of a church. Few possibilities appeared to exist in Pagham, despite the efforts of Mr. Davies and his supporters.
Rev. Michael J. Davies considers plans with Rev. R.E. Fenn, Mr. G. Bellas and Mr. B. Isom.
(Courtesy: "Bognor Post")
However, on 17th January,
1964, Mr. Davies made approach to the Pagham
Estate Agency (Mr. B. Isom) to
see if any site was available.
Many were examined, including
a derelict windmill, a
disused factory, a quarry
site, and several plots, all of which were
either unsuitable or unavailable or
both.
The only suitable land was on the west side of the Pagham Road, and designated as green belt. By the prescience and determination of Mr. Davies, a site on this land (where St. Ninian's now stands) was purchased, but not without a protracted campaign to get special planning consent from the local authority.
Eventually, both Planning Authority and the landlord agreed and the site was purchased. The price, though quite reasonable by today's standards, seemed exorbitant at the time. That the church authorities agreed to pay for the site would seem to have been a remarkable act of faith in the capability of the infant congregation
The only suitable land was on the west side of the Pagham Road, and designated as green belt. By the prescience and determination of Mr. Davies, a site on this land (where St. Ninian's now stands) was purchased, but not without a protracted campaign to get special planning consent from the local authority.
Eventually, both Planning Authority and the landlord agreed and the site was purchased. The price, though quite reasonable by today's standards, seemed exorbitant at the time. That the church authorities agreed to pay for the site would seem to have been a remarkable act of faith in the capability of the infant congregation
THE LITTLE ROOM
A further meeting of interested parties took place at the de Winton's house on 31st January, 1964, and it was clear that there was a strong desire to start services - but where?
Mr. Davies again writes - "During the course of negotiations about sites with Mr. Isom, we also asked his advice about a venue for services. After making a number of suggestions which all proved abortive, he eventually offered the use of a small room at the rear of his Estate Agency. It would seat about 25 and accommodate a piano - it would do for a start!"
A piano was donated (from St. Andrew's, Rustington) and they also lent sufficient chairs and hymn books. Posters were designed (by Mr. Davies) and displayed widely in Pagham and Bognor areas, also advertisements were put in the local press.
The first service was planned for 15th March, 1964, and Captain de Winton (hereinafter noted as the Secretary) was elected as Secretary. I am not sure that he was actually elected but rather that it was wished on him!
When planning for 15th March and subsequent services, Mr. Davies decided that these should be held at 3 p.m. in order that the visiting Minister should have an adequate interval after a morning service which he might have taken or attended.
In drawing up a rota of Ministers, he was able to enlist the help of two retired Presbyterians, two retired Methodists, one retired Congregational and one retired Lutheran, in addition to himself, Mr. Cullen, and the late Mr. Macpherson. These came from as far apart as High Salvington and Gosport.
The morning of 15th March, 1964, dawned wet and stormy, but not without bursts of sunshine. Preparations for the first service in what came to be known as "the little room" had been made overnight and in the forenoon. Provision for the Minister was somewhat primitive, as he had to robe, meet the Secretary and discuss anything with him, in the lavatory at the end of a short passage leading to the little room.
Those of us who came in the morning to set the room to rights, arrange flowers, etc., wondered how many folk would turn up at 3 p.m. Owing to Nyetimber Lane being flooded, also the Pagham Road close to the Estate Agency, telephone messages had to be sent to Rustington and Bognor that Hook Lane would have to be used for transport.
Before the appointed time, Mr. Davies emerged safely from the floods, accompanied by one of his Elders, and a lady of his congregation who would play the piano.
Including the two helpers from Rustington, a total of 22 attended the first service, and the collection totalled £2.8.6.
We were on our way!
A copy of the poster announcing the first service was subsequently framed and is produced at the Anniversary Service.
Mr. Macpherson took the second service on 22nd March (preaching a memorable sermon from Ecclesiastes 9) when the attendance was 19 and the col1ection £2.10.6. Services in the little room continued till 11th October, 1964, the highest number present being 28 on 5th April (this was a real crowd) and by July the average attendance was 20.
Some recollections of these services may not be out of place here.
One of the earliest of our articles of Church Furnishings, an offertory bag, was given by a member in memory of Dr. James Reid of Eastbourne.
It soon became apparent that we must try to produce a pianist from our own resources and not rely on Rustington, so both Mrs. Weekes and Mrs. de Winton decided to try, and their courage was rewarded as they were accepted as the two regular pianists in the little room.
It will be recalled by those who were there, that there was little room for altering the seating arrangements, although several different settings were tried. It was somewhat like one of those metal puzzles which have one empty space, so that all the pieces can move eventually.
There was an empty built-in cupboard, in which for several services we tried putting the Minister; this was not entirely successful for as time went on the westering sun shone fiercely through the window into his face.
On one occasion, during the singing of a hymn, a would-be helpful member who was turning the pages for the pianist (it was as close quarters as that!) succeeded in sending the book flying. Fortunately the Minister (it was Mr. Davies) valiantly raised the song higher, so order was not lost.
The piano had no book-rest visible. One Sunday, the visiting Minister was accompanied by a relative who was known to be a very skilled pianist; she was pressed into service as such, and astonished us by pressing a concealed knob for a book-rest to appear - this problem was thus solved.
Extract from No. 1 edition of Pagham Presbyterian News dated 28/4/64, issued by Rev. M. J. Davies –
"At the close of the service last Sunday, we took the next step in the development of the work. A Committee was elected to organise the work of the congregation for the remainder of the year.
Under the chairmanship of Rev. Leslie Macpherson, of St.Columba's, Worthing, or myself, the following 'local members' will serve:-
Captain F. S. W. de Win ton who has been acting as Secretary of the cause
Miss H. Bertram
Mr. B. Halt
Mr. G. G. Houston
Miss R. A. Ingarfield
Mr. C. W. Roden
Mr. R. C. Weekes
There will also be two elders from Rustington, Major J. G.Edgar and Mr. J. F. Paterson, and two elders from Worthing (yet to be appointed)". Mr. J. Russell Taylor and Mr. S. G. Williamson also became members of the Committee.
By May it was evident that the response to the first steps towards a church was encouraging, in that about 40 local folk had already attended at least one service, and there was a hard core of at least a dozen regulars.
A visitors' book (still in use at St. Ninian's) was started with the first service, and those who attended were followed up.
The Ministers who took the services were always so helpful, and accepted the primitive conditions with a smile.
Mr. Davies again writes - "During the course of negotiations about sites with Mr. Isom, we also asked his advice about a venue for services. After making a number of suggestions which all proved abortive, he eventually offered the use of a small room at the rear of his Estate Agency. It would seat about 25 and accommodate a piano - it would do for a start!"
A piano was donated (from St. Andrew's, Rustington) and they also lent sufficient chairs and hymn books. Posters were designed (by Mr. Davies) and displayed widely in Pagham and Bognor areas, also advertisements were put in the local press.
The first service was planned for 15th March, 1964, and Captain de Winton (hereinafter noted as the Secretary) was elected as Secretary. I am not sure that he was actually elected but rather that it was wished on him!
When planning for 15th March and subsequent services, Mr. Davies decided that these should be held at 3 p.m. in order that the visiting Minister should have an adequate interval after a morning service which he might have taken or attended.
In drawing up a rota of Ministers, he was able to enlist the help of two retired Presbyterians, two retired Methodists, one retired Congregational and one retired Lutheran, in addition to himself, Mr. Cullen, and the late Mr. Macpherson. These came from as far apart as High Salvington and Gosport.
The morning of 15th March, 1964, dawned wet and stormy, but not without bursts of sunshine. Preparations for the first service in what came to be known as "the little room" had been made overnight and in the forenoon. Provision for the Minister was somewhat primitive, as he had to robe, meet the Secretary and discuss anything with him, in the lavatory at the end of a short passage leading to the little room.
Those of us who came in the morning to set the room to rights, arrange flowers, etc., wondered how many folk would turn up at 3 p.m. Owing to Nyetimber Lane being flooded, also the Pagham Road close to the Estate Agency, telephone messages had to be sent to Rustington and Bognor that Hook Lane would have to be used for transport.
Before the appointed time, Mr. Davies emerged safely from the floods, accompanied by one of his Elders, and a lady of his congregation who would play the piano.
Including the two helpers from Rustington, a total of 22 attended the first service, and the collection totalled £2.8.6.
We were on our way!
A copy of the poster announcing the first service was subsequently framed and is produced at the Anniversary Service.
Mr. Macpherson took the second service on 22nd March (preaching a memorable sermon from Ecclesiastes 9) when the attendance was 19 and the col1ection £2.10.6. Services in the little room continued till 11th October, 1964, the highest number present being 28 on 5th April (this was a real crowd) and by July the average attendance was 20.
Some recollections of these services may not be out of place here.
One of the earliest of our articles of Church Furnishings, an offertory bag, was given by a member in memory of Dr. James Reid of Eastbourne.
It soon became apparent that we must try to produce a pianist from our own resources and not rely on Rustington, so both Mrs. Weekes and Mrs. de Winton decided to try, and their courage was rewarded as they were accepted as the two regular pianists in the little room.
It will be recalled by those who were there, that there was little room for altering the seating arrangements, although several different settings were tried. It was somewhat like one of those metal puzzles which have one empty space, so that all the pieces can move eventually.
There was an empty built-in cupboard, in which for several services we tried putting the Minister; this was not entirely successful for as time went on the westering sun shone fiercely through the window into his face.
On one occasion, during the singing of a hymn, a would-be helpful member who was turning the pages for the pianist (it was as close quarters as that!) succeeded in sending the book flying. Fortunately the Minister (it was Mr. Davies) valiantly raised the song higher, so order was not lost.
The piano had no book-rest visible. One Sunday, the visiting Minister was accompanied by a relative who was known to be a very skilled pianist; she was pressed into service as such, and astonished us by pressing a concealed knob for a book-rest to appear - this problem was thus solved.
Extract from No. 1 edition of Pagham Presbyterian News dated 28/4/64, issued by Rev. M. J. Davies –
"At the close of the service last Sunday, we took the next step in the development of the work. A Committee was elected to organise the work of the congregation for the remainder of the year.
Under the chairmanship of Rev. Leslie Macpherson, of St.Columba's, Worthing, or myself, the following 'local members' will serve:-
Captain F. S. W. de Win ton who has been acting as Secretary of the cause
Miss H. Bertram
Mr. B. Halt
Mr. G. G. Houston
Miss R. A. Ingarfield
Mr. C. W. Roden
Mr. R. C. Weekes
There will also be two elders from Rustington, Major J. G.Edgar and Mr. J. F. Paterson, and two elders from Worthing (yet to be appointed)". Mr. J. Russell Taylor and Mr. S. G. Williamson also became members of the Committee.
By May it was evident that the response to the first steps towards a church was encouraging, in that about 40 local folk had already attended at least one service, and there was a hard core of at least a dozen regulars.
A visitors' book (still in use at St. Ninian's) was started with the first service, and those who attended were followed up.
The Ministers who took the services were always so helpful, and accepted the primitive conditions with a smile.
THE CRICKET PAVILION
On 11th October it had to be announced to the congregation that our tenancy of the little room had come to an end, as Mr. Isom required its use for his business. The congregation were told that the place of service the following Sunday would be circulated to all in good time. It was necessary to be cagey, as it was not then certain that we could use the cricket pavilion. Fortunately, Mr. Isom was able to persuade the Pagham Cricket Club to let us use their pavilion on Sunday afternoons, as they did not usually play Sunday matches, and accordingly the next service, on 18th October, was held there.
The transfer to the Cricket Club was another milestone on our way. The writer remembers with gratitude how extremely friendly and co-operative the officials of the Cricket Club were at all times.
It was necessary to prepare the pavilion for services beforehand, and this was usually done in the morning when things were quiet. The club's chairs were used for the congregation, reinforced by the chairs already lent from Rustington. There was a piano, and of course ample space; predictably as the services became known more people were gradually drawn in.
We used the Visitors' Dressing Room for the Minister to robe in, which he found a considerable improvement on the space available in the little room.
At the first service in the pavilion, taken by Mr. Davies, on 18th October, 1964, 25 were present, and the writer remembers that, appropriately, one of the hymns was 528 ("I feel the winds of God today"). At the second service, 33 attended and by December the average attendance had risen to 30, the highest single attendance being 41, on 20th December.
It was a great experience to see the congregation growing so, and one could envisage the time when we should fill the pavilion.
It should be noted here that during the autumn it became apparent that the congregation was not only growing in numbers, but was growing in friendship and fellowship and any friends joining would be sure of a welcome.
The first Coffee Morning was held on 18th July at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Weekes in Richmond Avenue, Bognor Regis. This raised £16.3.0 for our church funds, and was of course the forerunner of many more
The transfer to the Cricket Club was another milestone on our way. The writer remembers with gratitude how extremely friendly and co-operative the officials of the Cricket Club were at all times.
It was necessary to prepare the pavilion for services beforehand, and this was usually done in the morning when things were quiet. The club's chairs were used for the congregation, reinforced by the chairs already lent from Rustington. There was a piano, and of course ample space; predictably as the services became known more people were gradually drawn in.
We used the Visitors' Dressing Room for the Minister to robe in, which he found a considerable improvement on the space available in the little room.
At the first service in the pavilion, taken by Mr. Davies, on 18th October, 1964, 25 were present, and the writer remembers that, appropriately, one of the hymns was 528 ("I feel the winds of God today"). At the second service, 33 attended and by December the average attendance had risen to 30, the highest single attendance being 41, on 20th December.
It was a great experience to see the congregation growing so, and one could envisage the time when we should fill the pavilion.
It should be noted here that during the autumn it became apparent that the congregation was not only growing in numbers, but was growing in friendship and fellowship and any friends joining would be sure of a welcome.
The first Coffee Morning was held on 18th July at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Weekes in Richmond Avenue, Bognor Regis. This raised £16.3.0 for our church funds, and was of course the forerunner of many more
The Secretary of the Pagham Committee (Capt . F.S. W. de Winton) preparing for a Service in the Cricket Pavilion.
Before moving to the Cricket Club, Mr. R. C. Weekes was appointed as our first Treasurer, and a Bank account was started at BarcIays Bank, West Bognor (later transferred to the Rose Green Branch). Collections in September and October averaged £3.10.0.
On 28th October a congregational meeting was held, by the courtesy of the Aldwick Free Church, in their Church Hall in Gossamer Lane. At this meeting, Mr. Davies was able to inform those assembled of the progress that had been made in recent months.
I quote from Pagham Presbyterian News No. 3.
"We are in the process of purchasing a site in Pagham Road, with planning permission to build a church, manse and ancillary buildings .. the average congregation has already risen by 10 to 30".
On 28th October a congregational meeting was held, by the courtesy of the Aldwick Free Church, in their Church Hall in Gossamer Lane. At this meeting, Mr. Davies was able to inform those assembled of the progress that had been made in recent months.
I quote from Pagham Presbyterian News No. 3.
"We are in the process of purchasing a site in Pagham Road, with planning permission to build a church, manse and ancillary buildings .. the average congregation has already risen by 10 to 30".
THE FIRST MINISTRY
It will be realised that much had been going on behind the scenes and that much of it was due to the foresight, energy and skill of Mr. Davies and the support given to him by Presbytery and the General Assembly.
At a meeting of Presbytery in April 1963, Pagham was first mentioned as having been brought to the notice of the Presbytery's Church Extension Committee, a survey having been made of the district. The Committee was authorised to consult with the Bognor Council of Churches for their views on the desirability of a Presbyterian Church in the Pagham area, and to get together any interested people to discuss possibilities.
It would also be necessary to approach the Town and Country Planning Authority with a view to obtaining a site, and, still looking ahead, to find a retired Minister to take charge.
Presbytery followed closely the tentative progress made during 1963, and at their meeting in February 1964 requested the Assembly's Church Extension Committee to obtain financial aid to purchase a site and erect a small building thereon.
During the meeting of the General Assembly in May 1964, the Rev. A. L. Macarthur and Rev. M. J. Davies put the suggestion to the Rev. R. E. Fenn, B.A. (then Overseas Missions Secretary), that, on his retirement at the end of the year, he should take charge of a group of people meeting at Pagham. (at that time he had no idea where Pagham was). Mr. Davies arranged for Mr. and Mrs. Fenn to have a look at the situation on 7th June.
After the visit, which took in a service in the little room, and a further private exploration of the area, Mr. Fenn, with his wife's concurrence, decided he would have a shot at looking after the cause if a house could be found for him.
A month later, Mr. and Mrs. Fenn again visited Pagham, saw the house "Struan" in King's Drive and agreed that it would suit. They also visited the Secretary who had been away at the time of their previous visit.
The Assembly's Committee accordingly negotiated for the purchase of "Struan". Owing to legal difficulties it did not become available till March 1965. Temporary accommodation in Meadow Way was obtained for the Fenns, into which they moved on December 15th, 1964.
At Presbytery Meeting in November 1964, it was reported that the Church Extension Committee had agreed to a loan/grant of £1500 towards a first unit building estimated to cost £2500, and it was agreed to ask Presbytery to help provide the further £1000.
By the time of the Fenns' arrival in Pagham, services in the cricket pavilion had been held regularly for about two months and we were feeling quite at home there. Accordingly it seemed a simple matter to arrange, with the permission of the Cricket Club, a welcome meeting for them on the evening of December 17th. The pavilion was heated and there were adequate kitchen and toilet facilities. The meeting was planned to start at 7.30 p.m. so that about 6.30 p.m. the Secretary and his wife arrived to open up, arrange seating and generally set things in order. It should be noted that it was a freezing cold evening.
The key of the pavilion was kept in the Telephone Exchange just opposite the gate into the cricket field, but on this occasion, to the dismay of the Secretary, it was not there. Immediate action was necessary; Mrs. de Winton contacted the local police and the Captain of the Cricket Club, while the Secretary moved in a different direction to find the Cricket Club Secretary. Time marched on, the evening was getting colder, folk were beginning to gather outside, and the pavilion was not yet open. The Club Secretary had no duplicate key, but he accompanied the (church) Secretary back to the pavilion to see what could be done. With public spirit he suggested that an entry must be forced by breaking in the door (the church Secretary did not argue with him!). The cricket community of Pagham having been thoroughly roused, someone remembered that the groundsman had an extra key, and before any structural damage had been done, he appeared like a heavenly messenger - with a key!
All this time the Secretary had been thinking that if we didn't do something pretty soon, Mr. Fenn would not like the look of us and would go away again.
By the time the door was open, the Fenns were seen approaching along Nyetimber Lane so, at least, there was some sort of welcome even if it was a chilly one, as the radiators hardly had time to get going.
The meeting which was attended by the Moderator of Presbytery, the Vicar of Pagham, several local Ministers and the Chairman of Pagham Parish Council and several well-wishers, was well supported by members of our own congregation. Mr. Fenn, in his recollections of the event, states "If the physical atmosphere was chilly, the welcome given to us was of the warmest".
As a postscript to this account, the reason for the key being missing was that the Secretary of another organisation (which shall be nameless), who had used the pavilion earlier in the day, had put the key in his pocket, instead of on the hook in the Telephone Exchange.
At the service on the following Sunday, December 20th, 41 folk attended and the collection was a record £6.16.9. By February 1965 the average attendance rose to 33, and by April to 43. It may be noted here that on 14th April the attendance reached its first half-century --- 51.
To have a Minister on the spot gave a considerable fillip to the growing congregation, and due to his indefatigable concern and care for the members, and his being able to visit them in their homes, the news spread that a lively and welcoming congregation was evolving.
The site for the church building in Pagham Road having been purchased, Presbytery appointed Messrs. Hubbard Ford and Partners as architects, and plans were drawn up for a Church Hall to seat about 120.
Soon after the move into the cricket pavilion, new members included Mr.& Mrs. G. Bellas Simpson and Mr. & Mrs. J. Russell Taylor - Mr. Russell Taylor being a member of St. Andrew's, Portsmouth, and subsequently appointed as an Assessor Elder at Pagham. Mrs. Bellas Simpson became our official pianist while Mr. Bellas Simpson, in January 1965, became Secretary of the Building Committee. To his enthusiasm and devotion we owe much. Mr. Russell Taylor assumed the office of Treasurer from Mr. Weekes.
The provisional plans for a small hall drawn up by the architect would only accommodate a few more people than the cricket pavilion, and the Church Committee had the confidence in its own future to decide on a more ambitious scheme, for which, in the end, plans were drawn up, and which eventually cost (with equipment) £8500.
Mr. Fenn records that on many Sundays the congregation remained after the service to discuss plans for the future. Fellowship developed speedily as the congregation realised how closely they were involved, and they were kept up to date with what was going on.
At their meeting in March 1965, Presbytery received the report from the convener of the Church Extension Committee, which stated that the building site had been purchased and that, after application had been duly made, the loan/grant towards the first unit would be raised to £2000.
At this meeting, the Secretary of Pagham Church Building Committee, Mr. Bellas Simpson, explained the plans for the development of the site and the building; overall costs were estimated at £6300 (eventually £8500) and towards this £4000 had been received, the balance to be raised by loans and from other sources.
Application was made to the Dunn Trust for a loan of £1000 on security of the manse (Struan) for the first unit building. Application was also made to the Henderson Trust for a loan of £750 on similar security.
Presbytery approved plans for the first unit building on the site, and authorised the Pagham Building Committee to go ahead with the building in consultation with the convener.
Presbytery raised the Pagham congregation to the status of a Preaching Station as from 25th April, 1965, with Rev. R. E. Fenn in charge and Major J. G. Edgar, Mr. J. A. Malloch, Mr. T. Muir Mr. J. F. Paterson (Elders of Rustington and Worthing), and Mr. J. Russell Taylor, as Assessor Elders.
Rev. L. J. Macpherson was appointed as Interim Moderator from the same date.
The Presbytery approval of the plans and application for financial help were announced to the congregation at once, and from then on progress was frequently discussed in the pavilion after the service, so that all were kept up to date. Harfield Ltd. of Bognor Regis received the contract to build the church hall.
The Pagham Committee met frequently to plan and direct operations, and meetings were helped by the presence and advice of the Assessor Elders, and the wise counsel of the Interim Moderator. Several consultations also took place with the architect, both at the site and at his office in Hove.
As the summer approached it became necessary to make plans for the Sunday service on the few occasions when the cricket pavilion would not be available.
Normally, the Pagham Cricket Club only played on Saturdays, but on five Sundays in the season they had a match and of these they gave us due notice. For these five occasions, the Vicar of Pagham, who all along was most co-operative, offered us St. Thomas a' Becket's Church for a 3 p.m. service, and this was gratefully accepted. Otherwise services continued throughout 1965 at the pavilion. By October, the average attendance was 44, and on two other occasions there was a congregation of over 50, Weekly offerings also increased significantly
At a meeting of Presbytery in April 1963, Pagham was first mentioned as having been brought to the notice of the Presbytery's Church Extension Committee, a survey having been made of the district. The Committee was authorised to consult with the Bognor Council of Churches for their views on the desirability of a Presbyterian Church in the Pagham area, and to get together any interested people to discuss possibilities.
It would also be necessary to approach the Town and Country Planning Authority with a view to obtaining a site, and, still looking ahead, to find a retired Minister to take charge.
Presbytery followed closely the tentative progress made during 1963, and at their meeting in February 1964 requested the Assembly's Church Extension Committee to obtain financial aid to purchase a site and erect a small building thereon.
During the meeting of the General Assembly in May 1964, the Rev. A. L. Macarthur and Rev. M. J. Davies put the suggestion to the Rev. R. E. Fenn, B.A. (then Overseas Missions Secretary), that, on his retirement at the end of the year, he should take charge of a group of people meeting at Pagham. (at that time he had no idea where Pagham was). Mr. Davies arranged for Mr. and Mrs. Fenn to have a look at the situation on 7th June.
After the visit, which took in a service in the little room, and a further private exploration of the area, Mr. Fenn, with his wife's concurrence, decided he would have a shot at looking after the cause if a house could be found for him.
A month later, Mr. and Mrs. Fenn again visited Pagham, saw the house "Struan" in King's Drive and agreed that it would suit. They also visited the Secretary who had been away at the time of their previous visit.
The Assembly's Committee accordingly negotiated for the purchase of "Struan". Owing to legal difficulties it did not become available till March 1965. Temporary accommodation in Meadow Way was obtained for the Fenns, into which they moved on December 15th, 1964.
At Presbytery Meeting in November 1964, it was reported that the Church Extension Committee had agreed to a loan/grant of £1500 towards a first unit building estimated to cost £2500, and it was agreed to ask Presbytery to help provide the further £1000.
By the time of the Fenns' arrival in Pagham, services in the cricket pavilion had been held regularly for about two months and we were feeling quite at home there. Accordingly it seemed a simple matter to arrange, with the permission of the Cricket Club, a welcome meeting for them on the evening of December 17th. The pavilion was heated and there were adequate kitchen and toilet facilities. The meeting was planned to start at 7.30 p.m. so that about 6.30 p.m. the Secretary and his wife arrived to open up, arrange seating and generally set things in order. It should be noted that it was a freezing cold evening.
The key of the pavilion was kept in the Telephone Exchange just opposite the gate into the cricket field, but on this occasion, to the dismay of the Secretary, it was not there. Immediate action was necessary; Mrs. de Winton contacted the local police and the Captain of the Cricket Club, while the Secretary moved in a different direction to find the Cricket Club Secretary. Time marched on, the evening was getting colder, folk were beginning to gather outside, and the pavilion was not yet open. The Club Secretary had no duplicate key, but he accompanied the (church) Secretary back to the pavilion to see what could be done. With public spirit he suggested that an entry must be forced by breaking in the door (the church Secretary did not argue with him!). The cricket community of Pagham having been thoroughly roused, someone remembered that the groundsman had an extra key, and before any structural damage had been done, he appeared like a heavenly messenger - with a key!
All this time the Secretary had been thinking that if we didn't do something pretty soon, Mr. Fenn would not like the look of us and would go away again.
By the time the door was open, the Fenns were seen approaching along Nyetimber Lane so, at least, there was some sort of welcome even if it was a chilly one, as the radiators hardly had time to get going.
The meeting which was attended by the Moderator of Presbytery, the Vicar of Pagham, several local Ministers and the Chairman of Pagham Parish Council and several well-wishers, was well supported by members of our own congregation. Mr. Fenn, in his recollections of the event, states "If the physical atmosphere was chilly, the welcome given to us was of the warmest".
As a postscript to this account, the reason for the key being missing was that the Secretary of another organisation (which shall be nameless), who had used the pavilion earlier in the day, had put the key in his pocket, instead of on the hook in the Telephone Exchange.
At the service on the following Sunday, December 20th, 41 folk attended and the collection was a record £6.16.9. By February 1965 the average attendance rose to 33, and by April to 43. It may be noted here that on 14th April the attendance reached its first half-century --- 51.
To have a Minister on the spot gave a considerable fillip to the growing congregation, and due to his indefatigable concern and care for the members, and his being able to visit them in their homes, the news spread that a lively and welcoming congregation was evolving.
The site for the church building in Pagham Road having been purchased, Presbytery appointed Messrs. Hubbard Ford and Partners as architects, and plans were drawn up for a Church Hall to seat about 120.
Soon after the move into the cricket pavilion, new members included Mr.& Mrs. G. Bellas Simpson and Mr. & Mrs. J. Russell Taylor - Mr. Russell Taylor being a member of St. Andrew's, Portsmouth, and subsequently appointed as an Assessor Elder at Pagham. Mrs. Bellas Simpson became our official pianist while Mr. Bellas Simpson, in January 1965, became Secretary of the Building Committee. To his enthusiasm and devotion we owe much. Mr. Russell Taylor assumed the office of Treasurer from Mr. Weekes.
The provisional plans for a small hall drawn up by the architect would only accommodate a few more people than the cricket pavilion, and the Church Committee had the confidence in its own future to decide on a more ambitious scheme, for which, in the end, plans were drawn up, and which eventually cost (with equipment) £8500.
Mr. Fenn records that on many Sundays the congregation remained after the service to discuss plans for the future. Fellowship developed speedily as the congregation realised how closely they were involved, and they were kept up to date with what was going on.
At their meeting in March 1965, Presbytery received the report from the convener of the Church Extension Committee, which stated that the building site had been purchased and that, after application had been duly made, the loan/grant towards the first unit would be raised to £2000.
At this meeting, the Secretary of Pagham Church Building Committee, Mr. Bellas Simpson, explained the plans for the development of the site and the building; overall costs were estimated at £6300 (eventually £8500) and towards this £4000 had been received, the balance to be raised by loans and from other sources.
Application was made to the Dunn Trust for a loan of £1000 on security of the manse (Struan) for the first unit building. Application was also made to the Henderson Trust for a loan of £750 on similar security.
Presbytery approved plans for the first unit building on the site, and authorised the Pagham Building Committee to go ahead with the building in consultation with the convener.
Presbytery raised the Pagham congregation to the status of a Preaching Station as from 25th April, 1965, with Rev. R. E. Fenn in charge and Major J. G. Edgar, Mr. J. A. Malloch, Mr. T. Muir Mr. J. F. Paterson (Elders of Rustington and Worthing), and Mr. J. Russell Taylor, as Assessor Elders.
Rev. L. J. Macpherson was appointed as Interim Moderator from the same date.
The Presbytery approval of the plans and application for financial help were announced to the congregation at once, and from then on progress was frequently discussed in the pavilion after the service, so that all were kept up to date. Harfield Ltd. of Bognor Regis received the contract to build the church hall.
The Pagham Committee met frequently to plan and direct operations, and meetings were helped by the presence and advice of the Assessor Elders, and the wise counsel of the Interim Moderator. Several consultations also took place with the architect, both at the site and at his office in Hove.
As the summer approached it became necessary to make plans for the Sunday service on the few occasions when the cricket pavilion would not be available.
Normally, the Pagham Cricket Club only played on Saturdays, but on five Sundays in the season they had a match and of these they gave us due notice. For these five occasions, the Vicar of Pagham, who all along was most co-operative, offered us St. Thomas a' Becket's Church for a 3 p.m. service, and this was gratefully accepted. Otherwise services continued throughout 1965 at the pavilion. By October, the average attendance was 44, and on two other occasions there was a congregation of over 50, Weekly offerings also increased significantly
The Cutting of the First Sod by Mr. S. G. Williamson. (Courtesy: "Bognor Post")
Coffee mornings and gatherings and small sales of work were held monthly at the homes of various members, and the sum of the takings added significantly to our growing Building Fund.
On 27th June a Membership Roll was formed with 45 names, and 5 adherents.
In July, Rev. M. J. Davies left St. Andrew's, Rustington, for the Church at Egremont, Wallasey. The congregation of Pagham, wishing to show some concrete expression of thanks for all that he had done for them, presented him and his wife, at a farewell party, with a wall mirror and a set of saucepans.
The congregation were much encouraged by the gift of £1000 for the Building Fund by an anonymous well-wisher. An old College friend of the Minister sent a cheque from U.S.A. for $500 (about £175) and another friend in this country sent £50.
A comparatively simple way of collecting for the Building Fund was started by Mr. C. W. Roden in March 1965. The idea was given to us by Mrs. Copeland, a member of St. Andrew's, Rustington. Friends were invited to take "Smartie" boxes, which held 40 threepenny pieces, and hand them to Mr. Roden when filled. The scheme still continues under Mrs. Roden's care; after decimalization, one new penny was substituted for the threepenny piece, and the box holds about 67 new pence. The scheme so far has collected over £188.
Two Jumble Sales were held during 1965, and also a Sale of Work in November which realised over £300.
After the summer season the Pagham Cricket Club kindly let us continue our services in the pavilion, it being patent that we could hardly expect our Church Hall to be completed before the spring.
A short service was held on the site on September 7th, when Mr. S. G. Williamson cut the first sod, at which over 60 persons were present. Previous to this several willing helpers spent some time in clearing undergrowth so that we could really see where the site was.
On Wednesday, 15th December, work was sufficiently far advanced for the foundation stone to be laid. This was done by the Secretary at a service conducted by the Moderator of Presbytery, Rev. D. H. Van Daalen, assisted by the Minister. The weather was doubtful for the occasion which was attended by over 80 people, standing in the open. However, it was concluded approximately on schedule before the rain started, and the people were then entertained to tea at the manse.
On 27th June a Membership Roll was formed with 45 names, and 5 adherents.
In July, Rev. M. J. Davies left St. Andrew's, Rustington, for the Church at Egremont, Wallasey. The congregation of Pagham, wishing to show some concrete expression of thanks for all that he had done for them, presented him and his wife, at a farewell party, with a wall mirror and a set of saucepans.
The congregation were much encouraged by the gift of £1000 for the Building Fund by an anonymous well-wisher. An old College friend of the Minister sent a cheque from U.S.A. for $500 (about £175) and another friend in this country sent £50.
A comparatively simple way of collecting for the Building Fund was started by Mr. C. W. Roden in March 1965. The idea was given to us by Mrs. Copeland, a member of St. Andrew's, Rustington. Friends were invited to take "Smartie" boxes, which held 40 threepenny pieces, and hand them to Mr. Roden when filled. The scheme still continues under Mrs. Roden's care; after decimalization, one new penny was substituted for the threepenny piece, and the box holds about 67 new pence. The scheme so far has collected over £188.
Two Jumble Sales were held during 1965, and also a Sale of Work in November which realised over £300.
After the summer season the Pagham Cricket Club kindly let us continue our services in the pavilion, it being patent that we could hardly expect our Church Hall to be completed before the spring.
A short service was held on the site on September 7th, when Mr. S. G. Williamson cut the first sod, at which over 60 persons were present. Previous to this several willing helpers spent some time in clearing undergrowth so that we could really see where the site was.
On Wednesday, 15th December, work was sufficiently far advanced for the foundation stone to be laid. This was done by the Secretary at a service conducted by the Moderator of Presbytery, Rev. D. H. Van Daalen, assisted by the Minister. The weather was doubtful for the occasion which was attended by over 80 people, standing in the open. However, it was concluded approximately on schedule before the rain started, and the people were then entertained to tea at the manse.
EXPANSION
The Minister and his wife having taken up residence at "Struan", it was possible to hold meetings of various sorts there; a Women's Guild was started and held fortnightly meetings with growing membership.
A Christmas Party was held in St. Richard's Hall, Rose Green, and raised £65 for the Building Fund.
1966 opened with services being held as heretofore, the congregation growing, work on the hall proceeding, and the general spirit of the congregation forward looking.
Two concerts in aid of the Building Fund were held in the Congregational Hall, Linden Road, Bognor Regis, by the kindness of that church. These concerts were arranged by a friend of the Secretary, Miss Silk, of Bedale House, Glencathara Road, and were much appreciated.
The Annual Meeting of the congregation was held in the pavilion after the service on January 30th, 1966. At this service the record number of 66 attended. To this meeting the current state of finances was presented:-
Estimated total cost of building and equipping:
Church Hall … … … … … … … … ... £8050
Money in hand to date … … … … … … … £3500
Loans promised … … … … … … … … £3000
Amount still required … … … … … … … … £1500
Much of the cost of equipment was offset by gifts from members of chairs, kitchen requisites, tables, etc. Mr. Russell Taylor, who was an expert electrician, gave invaluable advice on this subject, and through his old firm saved us a lot of expense on electrical equipment. A well-wisher paid for the entire kitchen.
By April, it was possible to fix a firm date for the opening of the Church Hall, on Saturday, May 14th.
It will be appropriate here to recall some memories of the 19 months that the congregation used the cricket pavilion.
After the welcome meeting in December 1964 no further incidents with keys occurred, but there were times when some pipes burst after frost, and we had to place buckets in the kitchen. Car parking was difficult on some days in winter owing to thick mud.
Almost at the end of our time in the pavilion, an unexpected Sunday match was arranged, and although we were informed in the morning, some quick action was necessary. 'Mr. and Mrs. BeIlas Simpson kindly offered the hospitality of their house for the service, and sentries were posted at the cricket ground to direct members to the new venue. One of the sentries hopefully accosted a family arriving, presumably to watch the cricket, only to find that they had come to join the service! They were redirected and subsequently joined the congregation.
The highest attendance in the pavilion was 68 on 6th March, 1965, and in April, our last full month there, the attendance averaged 56. By this time the collection per month averaged about £55 It was realised, of course, that as soon as we had our own roof, activities could expand quickly.
In April 1966, at the unanimous request of the Session and Committee, Presbytery approved the adoption of the name St. Ninian's for the congregation.
A Christmas Party was held in St. Richard's Hall, Rose Green, and raised £65 for the Building Fund.
1966 opened with services being held as heretofore, the congregation growing, work on the hall proceeding, and the general spirit of the congregation forward looking.
Two concerts in aid of the Building Fund were held in the Congregational Hall, Linden Road, Bognor Regis, by the kindness of that church. These concerts were arranged by a friend of the Secretary, Miss Silk, of Bedale House, Glencathara Road, and were much appreciated.
The Annual Meeting of the congregation was held in the pavilion after the service on January 30th, 1966. At this service the record number of 66 attended. To this meeting the current state of finances was presented:-
Estimated total cost of building and equipping:
Church Hall … … … … … … … … ... £8050
Money in hand to date … … … … … … … £3500
Loans promised … … … … … … … … £3000
Amount still required … … … … … … … … £1500
Much of the cost of equipment was offset by gifts from members of chairs, kitchen requisites, tables, etc. Mr. Russell Taylor, who was an expert electrician, gave invaluable advice on this subject, and through his old firm saved us a lot of expense on electrical equipment. A well-wisher paid for the entire kitchen.
By April, it was possible to fix a firm date for the opening of the Church Hall, on Saturday, May 14th.
It will be appropriate here to recall some memories of the 19 months that the congregation used the cricket pavilion.
After the welcome meeting in December 1964 no further incidents with keys occurred, but there were times when some pipes burst after frost, and we had to place buckets in the kitchen. Car parking was difficult on some days in winter owing to thick mud.
Almost at the end of our time in the pavilion, an unexpected Sunday match was arranged, and although we were informed in the morning, some quick action was necessary. 'Mr. and Mrs. BeIlas Simpson kindly offered the hospitality of their house for the service, and sentries were posted at the cricket ground to direct members to the new venue. One of the sentries hopefully accosted a family arriving, presumably to watch the cricket, only to find that they had come to join the service! They were redirected and subsequently joined the congregation.
The highest attendance in the pavilion was 68 on 6th March, 1965, and in April, our last full month there, the attendance averaged 56. By this time the collection per month averaged about £55 It was realised, of course, that as soon as we had our own roof, activities could expand quickly.
In April 1966, at the unanimous request of the Session and Committee, Presbytery approved the adoption of the name St. Ninian's for the congregation.
THE CHURCH HALL
The Church Hall was opened on May 14th, 1966, by the Moderator of the General Assembly, Right Rev. H. B. Jamieson M.A., who was accompanied by the Moderator and members of the South Coast Presbytery.
As the Hall was expected to be filled, a marquee was hired for any overflow, and the service was relayed to it. In the event, the Hall had over 150 in it, and the marquee over 50. This was a day of great promise for the young church and the realisation of many hopes.
Thereafter, Sunday services were held at 11.15a.m. and the average congregation rose in June to 87. Although the accommodation for the Minister not ideal (he had to use the kitchen as his vestry) at any rate it was better than the bare boards of former days.
Having our own building, the activities of the congregation now increased in many ways. The Women's Guild rapidly increased in numbers, a Junior Church was started which met at 10 a.m. on Sundays; and on Thursday afternoons a "Play and Story Hour" for the under 5's commenced. The latter, after a slow start, really got going and before long had over 40 on its membership roll. Out of this grew the Young Wives' Group meetings which were held on Tuesday evenings.
A Cub Pack was started under the leadership of Mr. Frank White, and a Brownie Pack under the leadership of Mrs. Beryl Halligey; this was followed by a Guide Company under Mrs. Lynda Mercer. For a year or two a Scout Company also functioned, but later under new district policy transferred to a centre in Bognor.
A Music Club was started, drawing in people of all kinds, and meeting monthly. This was later re-named the Music Lovers' Fellowship.
It was possible to lend the Hall to two Women's Institutes for their regular monthly meetings, and for about two years the Welfare Authorities used the Hall for a fortnightly clinic. Scottish Dancing classes were also started.
It was the accepted policy that the Hall should provide facilities for the community which up to that time was sadly lacking in places for meetings. Indeed a marked characteristic from its beginnings was that this Church of St. Ninian's existed for the sake of the wider community
As the Hall was expected to be filled, a marquee was hired for any overflow, and the service was relayed to it. In the event, the Hall had over 150 in it, and the marquee over 50. This was a day of great promise for the young church and the realisation of many hopes.
Thereafter, Sunday services were held at 11.15a.m. and the average congregation rose in June to 87. Although the accommodation for the Minister not ideal (he had to use the kitchen as his vestry) at any rate it was better than the bare boards of former days.
Having our own building, the activities of the congregation now increased in many ways. The Women's Guild rapidly increased in numbers, a Junior Church was started which met at 10 a.m. on Sundays; and on Thursday afternoons a "Play and Story Hour" for the under 5's commenced. The latter, after a slow start, really got going and before long had over 40 on its membership roll. Out of this grew the Young Wives' Group meetings which were held on Tuesday evenings.
A Cub Pack was started under the leadership of Mr. Frank White, and a Brownie Pack under the leadership of Mrs. Beryl Halligey; this was followed by a Guide Company under Mrs. Lynda Mercer. For a year or two a Scout Company also functioned, but later under new district policy transferred to a centre in Bognor.
A Music Club was started, drawing in people of all kinds, and meeting monthly. This was later re-named the Music Lovers' Fellowship.
It was possible to lend the Hall to two Women's Institutes for their regular monthly meetings, and for about two years the Welfare Authorities used the Hall for a fortnightly clinic. Scottish Dancing classes were also started.
It was the accepted policy that the Hall should provide facilities for the community which up to that time was sadly lacking in places for meetings. Indeed a marked characteristic from its beginnings was that this Church of St. Ninian's existed for the sake of the wider community
At the Opening of the Church Hall by the Moderator of Assembly. Rev. Henry B. Jamieson.
(Courtesy: "Bognor" Post")
Therefore, in spite of the burden of its own needs, it gave enthusiastic support to the wider work of the Church, as well as Leprosy Missions, Bible Society, Christian Aid, etc.
The cause having been raised to a Preaching Station shortly' before the opening of the Church Hall, it became necessary for a Session to be appointed, on which the Assessor Elders from Worthing and Rustington served together with local members.
The Rev. L. J. Macpherson was appointed Interim Moderator, and Mr. J. A. Malloch (Session Clerk of St. Columba's, Worthing) became Acting Session Clerk of St. Ninian's. This was the status until May 1971, when the General Assembly agreed to raise the cause to a fully Sanctioned Charge. St. Ninian's elected their first Elders to join the Session early in 1967, and also elected members to serve on the Deacons' Court, into which the original Pagham Church Committee merged.
The following were the first Elders elected in February 1967:Mr. R. C. Weekes, Mr. G. Bellas Simpson, Mr. A. Hough, Mr. N. Edmeston, Capt. F. S. W. de Winton, Mr. W. D. D. Jardine and Mr. S. G. Williamson.
Mr. J. A. Malloch of St. Columba's, Worthing, continued to serve as Session Clerk.
Subsequent Elders elected in February 1969 to fill gaps left by death and illness were:-
Mrs. F. M. Chamberlain, Mrs. N. Edmeston, Mrs. J. W. Thompson. Mr. G. Bellas Simpson became Session Clerk vice Mr. J. A. Malloch.
In 1971 the following were elected:-
Mrs. I. R. Brittain, Mrs. O. G. Williamson, Mr. C. C. A. Gibbs, Mr. G. G. Summers.
When the Pagham Committee became the Deacons' Court in 1967 the first Deacons were:-
Mrs. F. M. Chamberlain, Miss E. Chilman, Mrs. N. Edmeston, Mrs. E. Groves, Mr. A. Hodge, Mr. L. B. Holt, Mrs. A. Hough, Mrs. G. G. Houston, Mr. J. J. Howard, Miss J. Hunter, Mr. J. W. Thompson, Mrs. 1. W. Thompson, Capt. F. S. W. de Winton (Clerk of the Court).
Subsequent members joining the Deacons' Court were:-
Mrs. L. Hunter, Mr. R. Ashcroft, Mr. H. Preddy, Mr. W. D. Hunter (Clerk of the Court, March 1969), Mr. A. J. Smith, (Treasurer, May 1970), Mr. E. G. Bray (F.W.O. Secretary).
The fund raising efforts of the congregation and the generosity of friends made it possible to end off the final payment for the Hall in July 1967.
By this date the congregation began to feel the effects of overcrowding. Most Sunday saw the Hall well filled and sometimes overfull. Intended to seat rather over 100, on one occasion of a family service 160 persons were present.
It was also felt that owing to both the Junior Church and the congregation having to use the same Hall, there was lack of contact between them. We had a choice, to stand still or go forward. We chose to go forward, and it became clear that an additional building was essential if we were to do so.
Once again therefore the good folk put their hands to the plough with a view to the building of an all-purpose Church. Hubbard Ford and Partners were again engaged as architects and the building tender was given to J. Snelling of Chichester. Plans were drawn up for a building estimated to cost about £20,000 with equipment.
Plans were approved by Presbytery, the Assembly's Panel on Church Design, and the Local Authority.
The sum involved seemed to be formidable, but, in fact, so great was the enthusiasm of the congregation under the leadership of Mr. Fenn, and so helpful was the General Assembly in arranging for funds, that in what seemed to be very short order the target was in sight. On 6th July, 1969, the Foundation Stone of the new building was laid by the Rev. R. E. Fenn, B.A., the service being conducted by Rev. J. Logan Armour, B.A.
Building went on in favourable weather conditions and the raising of money for the Building Fund now became a major task. The Assembly's Church Extension Committee gave us a grant of £5000 and offered a loan (interest free) of £7000. As in the case of the building of the Church Hall, individual members contributed specifically for items of equipment. Many chairs were thus paid for, also the lectern, communion table, pulpit, font, platform carpet, furnishing of the vestry, desk in the vestry and the water heater in the utility room.
It should be emphasised here that although most generous gifts came from outside, the main financial burden was carried by a group who were mostly pensioners.
The Junior Church presented the church clock and the stand for the font was presented by the architect. Meanwhile great efforts were being made by the Women's Guild, under the guidance of Mrs. Fenn, by means of sales of work, jumble sales, coffee mornings, concerts, etc., so that by the time of the opening of the new building the Building',Fund stood at £13,000. The Christmas Fair held shortly before the opening had raised over £400.
On December 13th, 1969, at a service conducted by the Moderator of Presbytery, the Rev. J. Logan Armour, B.A., the new church building was dedicated by the Rev: A. L. Macarthur, M.A., M.Litt., General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church of England. For this ceremony, the church was full to overflowing. The outside activities that took place in the Hall have already been mentioned, and what should not be forgotten is the selfless service and dedication: of so many members who helped to keep the building clean, and see 'to- the heating, the arrangement of chairs and all the necessary preparations for Sunday services.
The cause having been raised to a Preaching Station shortly' before the opening of the Church Hall, it became necessary for a Session to be appointed, on which the Assessor Elders from Worthing and Rustington served together with local members.
The Rev. L. J. Macpherson was appointed Interim Moderator, and Mr. J. A. Malloch (Session Clerk of St. Columba's, Worthing) became Acting Session Clerk of St. Ninian's. This was the status until May 1971, when the General Assembly agreed to raise the cause to a fully Sanctioned Charge. St. Ninian's elected their first Elders to join the Session early in 1967, and also elected members to serve on the Deacons' Court, into which the original Pagham Church Committee merged.
The following were the first Elders elected in February 1967:Mr. R. C. Weekes, Mr. G. Bellas Simpson, Mr. A. Hough, Mr. N. Edmeston, Capt. F. S. W. de Winton, Mr. W. D. D. Jardine and Mr. S. G. Williamson.
Mr. J. A. Malloch of St. Columba's, Worthing, continued to serve as Session Clerk.
Subsequent Elders elected in February 1969 to fill gaps left by death and illness were:-
Mrs. F. M. Chamberlain, Mrs. N. Edmeston, Mrs. J. W. Thompson. Mr. G. Bellas Simpson became Session Clerk vice Mr. J. A. Malloch.
In 1971 the following were elected:-
Mrs. I. R. Brittain, Mrs. O. G. Williamson, Mr. C. C. A. Gibbs, Mr. G. G. Summers.
When the Pagham Committee became the Deacons' Court in 1967 the first Deacons were:-
Mrs. F. M. Chamberlain, Miss E. Chilman, Mrs. N. Edmeston, Mrs. E. Groves, Mr. A. Hodge, Mr. L. B. Holt, Mrs. A. Hough, Mrs. G. G. Houston, Mr. J. J. Howard, Miss J. Hunter, Mr. J. W. Thompson, Mrs. 1. W. Thompson, Capt. F. S. W. de Winton (Clerk of the Court).
Subsequent members joining the Deacons' Court were:-
Mrs. L. Hunter, Mr. R. Ashcroft, Mr. H. Preddy, Mr. W. D. Hunter (Clerk of the Court, March 1969), Mr. A. J. Smith, (Treasurer, May 1970), Mr. E. G. Bray (F.W.O. Secretary).
The fund raising efforts of the congregation and the generosity of friends made it possible to end off the final payment for the Hall in July 1967.
By this date the congregation began to feel the effects of overcrowding. Most Sunday saw the Hall well filled and sometimes overfull. Intended to seat rather over 100, on one occasion of a family service 160 persons were present.
It was also felt that owing to both the Junior Church and the congregation having to use the same Hall, there was lack of contact between them. We had a choice, to stand still or go forward. We chose to go forward, and it became clear that an additional building was essential if we were to do so.
Once again therefore the good folk put their hands to the plough with a view to the building of an all-purpose Church. Hubbard Ford and Partners were again engaged as architects and the building tender was given to J. Snelling of Chichester. Plans were drawn up for a building estimated to cost about £20,000 with equipment.
Plans were approved by Presbytery, the Assembly's Panel on Church Design, and the Local Authority.
The sum involved seemed to be formidable, but, in fact, so great was the enthusiasm of the congregation under the leadership of Mr. Fenn, and so helpful was the General Assembly in arranging for funds, that in what seemed to be very short order the target was in sight. On 6th July, 1969, the Foundation Stone of the new building was laid by the Rev. R. E. Fenn, B.A., the service being conducted by Rev. J. Logan Armour, B.A.
Building went on in favourable weather conditions and the raising of money for the Building Fund now became a major task. The Assembly's Church Extension Committee gave us a grant of £5000 and offered a loan (interest free) of £7000. As in the case of the building of the Church Hall, individual members contributed specifically for items of equipment. Many chairs were thus paid for, also the lectern, communion table, pulpit, font, platform carpet, furnishing of the vestry, desk in the vestry and the water heater in the utility room.
It should be emphasised here that although most generous gifts came from outside, the main financial burden was carried by a group who were mostly pensioners.
The Junior Church presented the church clock and the stand for the font was presented by the architect. Meanwhile great efforts were being made by the Women's Guild, under the guidance of Mrs. Fenn, by means of sales of work, jumble sales, coffee mornings, concerts, etc., so that by the time of the opening of the new building the Building',Fund stood at £13,000. The Christmas Fair held shortly before the opening had raised over £400.
On December 13th, 1969, at a service conducted by the Moderator of Presbytery, the Rev. J. Logan Armour, B.A., the new church building was dedicated by the Rev: A. L. Macarthur, M.A., M.Litt., General Secretary of the Presbyterian Church of England. For this ceremony, the church was full to overflowing. The outside activities that took place in the Hall have already been mentioned, and what should not be forgotten is the selfless service and dedication: of so many members who helped to keep the building clean, and see 'to- the heating, the arrangement of chairs and all the necessary preparations for Sunday services.
THE CHURCH
Not long after our move to the Church Hall, amongst other folk joining us were Mr. & Mrs. J. W. Thompson. Mr. Thompson became a tower of strength in taking charge of the Fabric Committee and we owe a tremendous debt to his expert knowledge and wise counsel in all the arrangements for the new building. At the same time, Mrs. Thompson 'became a valued member of the Women's Guild, and later an Elder.
When the question of an additional building was being considered, much thought was given to its situation; should it be built parallel to the Hall, what sort of connection should there be between the buildings, or should an extension be built on to the present building? The size, of course, was of considerable moment. As the writer recollects, it was the original idea of Mr. R. C. Weekes that produced the plan that there should be a new building, to include vestry, committee rooms, etc., which should be placed at right angles on the eastern end of the Church Hall (thus forming a combined T- shaped building) and connected at the lobby by the front door. This was roughly the plan adopted.
During the period in the Hall, Mrs. G. G. Houston took over the office of Treasurer which she held for 3 years, and in March 1969 the Secretary had to resign due to illness, being succeeded, as Clerk of the Deacons' Court, by Mr. W. T. Hunter.
In March 1969, Mr. G. Bellas Simpson succeeded Mr. J. A. Malloch as Session Clerk. In November 1969, after being our official pianist for about 5 years, Mrs. Bellas Simpson had to relinquish this duty, and she was replaced by Mr. Eric Brittain.
Extract from a letter from a friend in another congregation about December 1967 :
"I sit down and read your December News Sheet once again - it has a placidity which is not in any paper or book. It has a calming effect and it speaks of the effort of a whole lot of good folks. I feel much better when I have read it and I sense the feeling of goodwill which has always been a part of the Pagham scene. I would send my good wishes to all of you".
On the opening of the Church building on 13th December, 1969 by the Moderator of the General Assembly, the Right Rev. Norman Birnie, M.A. Morning Service was of course held there, while the Junior Church had uninterrupted use of the Church Hall, also of the Committee room and Utility room in the new building.
The larger building proved its worth in the expansion of activities, and the number attending services continued to rise. In the Hall a congregation of over 100 was an event - also causing some overcrowding, but in the Church this number became commonplace and the additional space made it look not too full.
In May 1970, Mr. A. J. Smith took over as Treasurer from Mrs. G. G. Houston who in her three years of office had handled most ably a number of large monetary transactions and whose reports were a model of clarity.
In June, the Building Fund advanced to £14,500, and by November it stood at £16,000.
In December 1970, Mr. Fenn announced that in 1971 his Ministry at St. Ninian's would come to an end. Those of us who were of the earliest membership appreciated that his ministry had already lasted twice as long as originally intended, with incalculable benefit to the growth of the Church.
The Presbytery agreed that Mr. Fenn should lay the needs of St. Ninian's before the churches in the Presbytery, and many contributed most generously. A grant was in this way received from the Caffyn Trust.
When, in December 1970, the time came for the first instalment (£500) of repayment of the Assembly's loan to be made, it was found possible to take advantage of the Church Extension Committee scheme whereby every £1 paid over and above the instalment due was reckoned as £2. By this means the whole of the loan was paid off, and by the time of the settlement of the new Minister in 1971, the church was within sight of freedom from debt.
To find a Minister to replace Mr. Fenn, the necessary procedure was inaugurated early in 1971, and on March 21st the Rev. W. P. Irving, B.A., Minister of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, Enfield, conducted our service. In due course a call was sent to him which he accepted.
Rev. R. E. Fenn having conducted his last service in the church on July 25th, a farewell party, very well attended, was given to him and his wife in the Church Hall on July 30th. Mr. and Mrs. Fenn were presented with a cheque and, with it, the following message of appreciation:
"To Mr. and Mrs. Fenn from the congregation of St. Ninian's, Pagham, with love and in deep gratitude for their unstinted devotion to the work of founding this church, which has been such a great help to so many".
Appropriately, a framed photograph of Mr. Fenn, dated 1964- 1971, was presented to the church and hung in the Hall.
The induction of Rev. W. P. lrving, B.A., took place on Friday, 3rd September, at a service conducted by the Moderator of Presbytery, Rev. M. L. Dunford, M.A. The service was followed by a welcome meeting for the new Minister and his wife.
With the advent of our new Minister, the building and occupation of a manse on our own site, the coming union with the Congregational Church, this seems to be the point to 'bring! this story to a close.
* * * * * *
The writer is most grateful to the Rev, R. E. Fenn, Rev. William Cullen, Rev. M. J. Davies and Rev. W. P. lrving for their help, advice and encouragement in compiling this account. Without, it could not have been done. The writer is also greatly indebted to Rev. D. AlIon Smith, B.Sc., for letting him have sight of Presbytery minutes of interest during the early days of building up, and to Mr. C. C. A. Gibbs for typing the manuscript.
Now that we have a membership of over 150 and a Junior Church of over 60, with congregations often well over 100, perhaps we are sometimes forgetful of our roots; it is good to have a look at them.
I am sure that many people have come to our church seeking peace of mind, or an answer to a problem, and I hope they have found what they were seeking; for to paraphrase Dr. Weatherhead, religion should be the sort of burden that wings are to a bird.
Much has been achieved, much remains to be done. The memory of all who helped and worked with us in the early days, whether belonging to our church or not, remains bright. They shall not be forgotten.
And lastly, I hope as we go forward and as sometimes we think how well we have done and how clever we have been, we shall remember Psalm 127 :
Except the Lord build the house,
they labour in vain that build it;
Except the Lord keep the city,
the watchman waketh but in vain.
September, 1972.
When the question of an additional building was being considered, much thought was given to its situation; should it be built parallel to the Hall, what sort of connection should there be between the buildings, or should an extension be built on to the present building? The size, of course, was of considerable moment. As the writer recollects, it was the original idea of Mr. R. C. Weekes that produced the plan that there should be a new building, to include vestry, committee rooms, etc., which should be placed at right angles on the eastern end of the Church Hall (thus forming a combined T- shaped building) and connected at the lobby by the front door. This was roughly the plan adopted.
During the period in the Hall, Mrs. G. G. Houston took over the office of Treasurer which she held for 3 years, and in March 1969 the Secretary had to resign due to illness, being succeeded, as Clerk of the Deacons' Court, by Mr. W. T. Hunter.
In March 1969, Mr. G. Bellas Simpson succeeded Mr. J. A. Malloch as Session Clerk. In November 1969, after being our official pianist for about 5 years, Mrs. Bellas Simpson had to relinquish this duty, and she was replaced by Mr. Eric Brittain.
Extract from a letter from a friend in another congregation about December 1967 :
"I sit down and read your December News Sheet once again - it has a placidity which is not in any paper or book. It has a calming effect and it speaks of the effort of a whole lot of good folks. I feel much better when I have read it and I sense the feeling of goodwill which has always been a part of the Pagham scene. I would send my good wishes to all of you".
On the opening of the Church building on 13th December, 1969 by the Moderator of the General Assembly, the Right Rev. Norman Birnie, M.A. Morning Service was of course held there, while the Junior Church had uninterrupted use of the Church Hall, also of the Committee room and Utility room in the new building.
The larger building proved its worth in the expansion of activities, and the number attending services continued to rise. In the Hall a congregation of over 100 was an event - also causing some overcrowding, but in the Church this number became commonplace and the additional space made it look not too full.
In May 1970, Mr. A. J. Smith took over as Treasurer from Mrs. G. G. Houston who in her three years of office had handled most ably a number of large monetary transactions and whose reports were a model of clarity.
In June, the Building Fund advanced to £14,500, and by November it stood at £16,000.
In December 1970, Mr. Fenn announced that in 1971 his Ministry at St. Ninian's would come to an end. Those of us who were of the earliest membership appreciated that his ministry had already lasted twice as long as originally intended, with incalculable benefit to the growth of the Church.
The Presbytery agreed that Mr. Fenn should lay the needs of St. Ninian's before the churches in the Presbytery, and many contributed most generously. A grant was in this way received from the Caffyn Trust.
When, in December 1970, the time came for the first instalment (£500) of repayment of the Assembly's loan to be made, it was found possible to take advantage of the Church Extension Committee scheme whereby every £1 paid over and above the instalment due was reckoned as £2. By this means the whole of the loan was paid off, and by the time of the settlement of the new Minister in 1971, the church was within sight of freedom from debt.
To find a Minister to replace Mr. Fenn, the necessary procedure was inaugurated early in 1971, and on March 21st the Rev. W. P. Irving, B.A., Minister of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, Enfield, conducted our service. In due course a call was sent to him which he accepted.
Rev. R. E. Fenn having conducted his last service in the church on July 25th, a farewell party, very well attended, was given to him and his wife in the Church Hall on July 30th. Mr. and Mrs. Fenn were presented with a cheque and, with it, the following message of appreciation:
"To Mr. and Mrs. Fenn from the congregation of St. Ninian's, Pagham, with love and in deep gratitude for their unstinted devotion to the work of founding this church, which has been such a great help to so many".
Appropriately, a framed photograph of Mr. Fenn, dated 1964- 1971, was presented to the church and hung in the Hall.
The induction of Rev. W. P. lrving, B.A., took place on Friday, 3rd September, at a service conducted by the Moderator of Presbytery, Rev. M. L. Dunford, M.A. The service was followed by a welcome meeting for the new Minister and his wife.
With the advent of our new Minister, the building and occupation of a manse on our own site, the coming union with the Congregational Church, this seems to be the point to 'bring! this story to a close.
* * * * * *
The writer is most grateful to the Rev, R. E. Fenn, Rev. William Cullen, Rev. M. J. Davies and Rev. W. P. lrving for their help, advice and encouragement in compiling this account. Without, it could not have been done. The writer is also greatly indebted to Rev. D. AlIon Smith, B.Sc., for letting him have sight of Presbytery minutes of interest during the early days of building up, and to Mr. C. C. A. Gibbs for typing the manuscript.
Now that we have a membership of over 150 and a Junior Church of over 60, with congregations often well over 100, perhaps we are sometimes forgetful of our roots; it is good to have a look at them.
I am sure that many people have come to our church seeking peace of mind, or an answer to a problem, and I hope they have found what they were seeking; for to paraphrase Dr. Weatherhead, religion should be the sort of burden that wings are to a bird.
Much has been achieved, much remains to be done. The memory of all who helped and worked with us in the early days, whether belonging to our church or not, remains bright. They shall not be forgotten.
And lastly, I hope as we go forward and as sometimes we think how well we have done and how clever we have been, we shall remember Psalm 127 :
Except the Lord build the house,
they labour in vain that build it;
Except the Lord keep the city,
the watchman waketh but in vain.
September, 1972.
As stated in the penultimate paragraph of the above church history -
'Much has been achieved, much remains to be done'
That was written 1972. It was that same year the English Presbyterians and the Congregationalists joined together to form the United Reformed Church A lot has been done since then. Although there is no further detailed history of the Pagham Church (known as St. Ninian's) activities since 1972 it is suffice to say that the church has been the focal point of the village and served the community well with many organisations making use of the church facilities and this continues to this day. Unfortunately the church attendance figures at worship has dropped dramatically in recent years. With the closure of the URC Church in Linden Road, Bognor Regis on 18th July 2010 and the transfer of the majority of the congregation to this church there may have been much sadness but this was also tinged with joy as we all began a new phase in our church life together at our Pagham United Reformed Church
'Much has been achieved, much remains to be done'
That was written 1972. It was that same year the English Presbyterians and the Congregationalists joined together to form the United Reformed Church A lot has been done since then. Although there is no further detailed history of the Pagham Church (known as St. Ninian's) activities since 1972 it is suffice to say that the church has been the focal point of the village and served the community well with many organisations making use of the church facilities and this continues to this day. Unfortunately the church attendance figures at worship has dropped dramatically in recent years. With the closure of the URC Church in Linden Road, Bognor Regis on 18th July 2010 and the transfer of the majority of the congregation to this church there may have been much sadness but this was also tinged with joy as we all began a new phase in our church life together at our Pagham United Reformed Church