The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Mary with St John & St Anne, Lancaster

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Mary with St John & St Anne, Lancaster is a registered UK charity (Charity number: 1131372) responsible for the administration and upkeep of the parish churches located in Lancaster. The council operates within the Church of England’s ecclesiastical framework, serving the local community by managing church activities, maintenance, outreach, and charitable functions.

Overview

The Council represents the laity and clergy of the parish, providing governance and supporting the mission of the Church in Lancaster. It oversees the spiritual, community, and heritage aspects of the churches under its jurisdiction, including St Mary’s, St John’s, and St Anne’s. Through its stewardship, the Council ensures that worship, pastoral care, education, and community services continue effectively for residents and parishioners.

Historical Context

The ecclesiastical parish itself is rooted in long-standing Christian traditions in Lancaster, encompassing historic places of worship significant to the local religious and cultural heritage. The parish churches, particularly St Mary’s, have origins tracing back several centuries and have evolved to meet the changing spiritual needs of the community.

The Parochial Church Council, as with others in the Church of England, plays a pivotal role in maintaining these historic buildings and facilitating their ongoing use for worship and community engagement. It operates under the legal framework that governs church parishes and their charitable status in the UK.

Charity Status

Registered with the Charity Commission under number 1131372, the Council is committed to fulfilling its charitable objectives by managing funds responsibly, supporting church life, preserving the fabric of the churches, and promoting Christian faith and fellowship within Lancaster. The Council ensures transparency and accountability in financial and administrative matters, aligning with the requirements set for religious charities.

Functions and Activities

• Managing the upkeep and restoration of parish church buildings and associated properties.
• Supporting regular worship services, special ceremonies, and community events.
• Providing pastoral care and outreach programs for parishioners and wider community members.
• Organizing educational programs, including religious instruction and heritage activities.
• Liaising with the Diocese and other church bodies to align local activities with broader Church of England initiatives.

Summary

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Mary with St John & St Anne, Lancaster, serves as a vital institution in the maintenance and promotion of Christian worship and community service in Lancaster. Its registered charity status underscores its role in stewardship and accountability within the local and ecclesiastical community. Through its governance and activities, it continues to uphold the rich spiritual and historical legacy of the Lancaster parishes.

Note: Specific detailed historical and operational data about the Council beyond its charity registration and general role in the Lancaster parish context are limited in publicly available sources.

[1] https://stmarylancaster.org/2018/parish-history/ [2] https://stmarylancaster.org/2018/our-parish-history/ [3] https://stmaryslancaster.org/history [4] https://catholictimescolumbus.org/news/doug-bean-25eff3c4-ec24-452b-acd4-427d4c0bf403/lancaster-st-mary-of-the-assumption-designated-a-minor-basilica [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_St._Mary_of_the_Assumption_(Lancaster,_Ohio)