April 2025
It is with a heavy heart that we share news of plans to begin the formal process of closing St Mary’s Church, Greenhow. This decision has not been taken lightly and follows much prayer, discussion, and reflection among those who love this church.
St Mary’s has been a cherished part of Greenhow since the mid-19th century, built to serve the spiritual needs of lead miners and their families. Over the years, it has provided a sacred space for worship, celebration, and remembrance. There will, of course, be sadness at the thought of closing the building. But as one member of the congregation has often reminded us, the Church is the people, not the building. We will carry on in our worship of the Lord, how could we not? God is central to everything, even if there are times when He seems a long way away.
We deeply appreciate the Greenhow community’s love and care for St Mary’s. Their generosity and commitment have been clear, from the volunteers who re-roofed the church in the 1980s to the many who have contributed time, money, and effort in times of need. Times have changed, however. Today, the process for even basic repairs must go through the Diocesan Advisory Committee, requiring architects and approved tradespeople. This significantly increases the cost and complexity of maintaining the church.
Whilst the congregation of approximately 12 includes only one Greenhow resident, we know that many in the community value attending special services such as Christmas, Remembrance, and Harvest. These much-loved occasions will continue to be part of our parish life, albeit at one of our other five churches in the United Parish.
A church is meant to be a place where people come together to explore faith, worship God, and serve the community, not just a building that stands empty for most of the year. While we love St Mary’s, we must acknowledge that its role in the community has changed. The challenges of maintaining a cold, damp building with significant repair needs have become too much for a small, ageing congregation, most of whom travel from Bewerley, Pateley Bridge, and Glasshouses.
The closure process is lengthy, often taking over a year, and can be paused or reconsidered at any point. If closure does proceed, we will mark this transition with deep gratitude for all St Mary’s has meant to Greenhow and the wider community.
However, whatever the future holds for the church building, please be assured that the Wayside Cemetery will remain open. We recognise that some residents have given donations and may be concerned about its future. Outstanding works to the memorials will be completed this year, and should the church close, the responsibility for maintaining and managing the cemetery will be transferred to the Parochial Church Council.
This is not the end of St Mary’s story, its legacy will live on. While practical help may be offered and welcomed, what is most needed to make it viable, is a worshipping congregation committed to its future.
As people of faith, we trust that endings are never the final word. Whatever lies ahead, God’s work will continue in Greenhow and beyond.
With love and prayers,
The Revd Darryl Hall
Vicar of the United Parish of Upper Nidderdale