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St Mary’s Church, Marshfield, has been named a finalist in this year’s National Church Awards, which celebrate the dedication, care and impact of the people who look after the UK’s church buildings and share them with their communities.The National Church Awards recognise the extraordinary work carried out every day by volunteers at churches, chapels and meeting houses across the country. From caring for historic buildings and welcoming visitors to supporting local communities and creating spaces where people can connect, belong and thrive, volunteers are at the heart of church life.Revd Ross Maidment, Ministry Area Leader for the Mountain and Marsh Ministry Area, said: “We are thrilled that St Mary’s has been named as a finalist in the National Church Awards. This recognition belongs to the volunteers who have given so much of themselves to help renew the life of the church.“Five years ago, St Mary’s was facing significant challenges, but a small and faithful group of people refused to give up. Their commitment has helped create a growing church, a flourishing music programme, a busy community space and a renewed sense of confidence about the future.“I am enormously grateful to them, and delighted to see their work recognised in this way.”St Mary’s has been recognised for the remarkable transformation achieved through the commitment and hard work of its volunteer team. Once a church facing significant challenges, St Mary’s has become a thriving and growing community hub thanks to volunteers who have dedicated their time and skills to worship, fundraising, administration, building care, community partnerships and outreach.Their efforts have laid the foundations for the church’s renewal and long-term sustainability. Today, St Mary’s is home to a flourishing music programme, including a community choir and youth chorister scheme that has introduced children and families to church life while developing confidence and musical abilities.Volunteers also lead a growing community gardening group and organise a varied programme of events throughout the year, including cinema nights, bingo evenings and community talks. As a result, the church is used and enjoyed by the wider community almost every day of the week.The recognition highlights the vital role volunteers play in sustaining church buildings and strengthening communities. Through their dedication, St Mary’s has become a welcoming and vibrant centre for worship, music, friendship and community activity, securing a positive future for both the church and the wider Marshfield community.The finalists will now be considered by the National Church Trust’s national judging panel, made up of experts from across the church, heritage, architecture and community sectors from all four nations of the UK.EndsNotes to EditorsThe National Church Awards celebrate the people and churches making a real difference in communities across the UK.St Mary’s Church is located in Marshfield, Newport, and is part of the Mountain and Marsh Ministry Area.The church hosts a range of worship, music and community activities throughout the year.

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