THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF ALL SAINTS, CRAWLEY DOWN (Charity number 1148157) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation associated with All Saints Church in Crawley Down, West Sussex. The organisation operates as the governing body responsible for the maintenance, development, and community activities of the church within the parish.

History

All Saints Church was consecrated in 1843 during a period when Crawley Down was a small village. The church construction was made possible by the generosity and faith of prominent local figures, including Henry Thomas, Earl of Chichester, the then Lord of the Manor, alongside George Bethune, Rector of Worth, and the inhabitants of Worth Parish of St. Nicholas. They contributed land and funds to build the church as a place of worship for the local community[1][2].

The church was built from locally hewn sandstone rather than the more commonly used brick of that era, reflecting its unique architectural heritage. It features an Early English style characterized by pointed arches and windows, along with an arch-braced timber roof structure[1][2]. Originally, the church was aisleless with a short chancel, typical of smaller churches from the mid-19th century[4].

Architecture and Features

The church’s Victorian design stands as a significant and beautiful landmark in Crawley Down. It has maintained much of its original character over the years, despite suffering damage in the Great Storm of 1987 when several mature trees were lost in the churchyard. One oak tree fell against the eastern nave gable wall, dislodging the stone cross on the gable coping but leaving the altar windows and lead intact. The roof of the Lady Chapel was also damaged and required timber replacements[1][2].

The interior furnishings of All Saints Church are notable for being largely hand-crafted by parishioners. The kneelers, designed by Joan Field and produced in 1975 by local Women’s Institute groups, each commemorate a saint and carry the initials of the makers as well as those in whose memory they were created. Additionally, a wooden chest for storing altar frontals was made by local craftsman Fred Rood[1][2].

Community Role

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of All Saints oversees the church’s operations and engages actively with the wider community. The church maintains strong links with local organisations, including Crawley Down Village Church of England School, with clergy regularly involved in collective worship and school events. The PCC ensures the church remains a vibrant center for spiritual life and community worship while preserving its historic legacy[5].

Charity Status

The PCC of All Saints, Crawley Down, is registered under the charity number 1148157. As a nonprofit entity, it relies on community support and stewardship to sustain the church fabric and its mission within the parish.

This article reflects the organisation’s role in preserving and fostering the historic and spiritual heritage of All Saints Church in Crawley Down, maintaining its importance as a cultural and religious institution in the region.

[1] https://www.nationalchurchestrust.org/church/all-saints-crawley-down [2] https://www.allsaintscrawleydown.org/our-history-and-records/a-brief-history-of-the-church/ [3] https://www.allsaintscrawleydown.org/our-history-and-records/ [4] https://sussexparishchurches.org/church/crawley-down-all-saints/ [5] https://www.crawleydownschool.com/all-saints-church/