The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St John the Evangelist, Fareham

Overview

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St John the Evangelist, Fareham, is a nonprofit organization registered in the UK with charity number 1143777. The organization is part of the Church of England and plays a vital role in the community of Fareham, particularly in religious and community activities.

History

The history of St John's Church in Fareham dates back over 200 years to Portsmouth. However, the specific parish at Fareham was established in the early 1960s. The current church building was consecrated on November 24, 1963, following the relocation of the congregation from a previous site due to wartime damage and redevelopments in the area[1][2].

Previous Church History

The original St John's in Fareham evolved from a much earlier church. In the early days, the congregation met in different locations, including a previous wooden structure that was deemed unsafe, leading to the construction of a new brick building in Surrey Street. This church suffered significant damage in World War II, particularly in January 1941, when it was bombed and extensively damaged, with the vicarage destroyed[2].

Current Church Building

The present church at St John's Fareham is designed to serve the local community. It has a base made of forced concrete faced with Gloucester and Purbeck stone, reflecting a modern architectural style while maintaining elements of traditional materials[1]. The church continues to play an important role in the community, focusing on religious services and outreach programs.

Activities and Community Involvement

St John's Fareham is actively involved in various community activities, including religious services, educational programs, and social outreach initiatives. The church often hosts talks and events aimed at preserving its rich history and engaging with local residents[2].

Governance and Structure

As a parish church within the Church of England, the church is governed by a Parochial Church Council (PCC), which is responsible for managing the church's affairs, including finances, maintenance, and community engagement. The PCC works closely with the local Anglican diocese to ensure alignment with broader church policies and objectives.

Conclusion

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of St John the Evangelist, Fareham, serves as a cornerstone of community life, preserving historical heritage while fostering community engagement through its activities and events.

[1] https://stjohnsfareham.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Our-History-Brochure1.pdf [2] https://www.portsmouth.anglican.org/news/2023/09/19/colourful-church-history-explored-talk/ [3] https://stjohnsfareham.org.uk/about-us/our-story/ [4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykV_Jj19wGg [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathedral_of_St_John_the_Evangelist,_Portsmouth