St Peter's, Hale, becomes a Pilgrim Place

St Peter's has stood at the heart of the village since 1892 and is developing new ways for people to explore its heritage while discovering more about what happens inside its historic walls.

The vicar, Ven Mike McGurk said the project is focused on reaching people in the wider community who may recognise the church but have never stepped inside.

“Many people in this community know this church. It’s been part of their lives, but very few of them have actually been here or come inside to what church is all about,” he explained.

One of the key developments is a new church explorer app, which will allow visitors to take a virtual tour of St Peter’s. The digital experience will guide users around the building, highlighting its architectural and historical features and explaining their significance.

The virtual tour will include important parts of the church such as the font, war memorials, organ, pulpit and altar, as well as features of the building itself.

Visitors will be encouraged to consider questions about the church’s architecture, including why the roof has its distinctive shape, while also learning about the role different areas of the building play in worship.

The project will also explore the church’s religious significance, with the app providing information about communion and the Eucharist, preaching and worship, alongside the history of St Peter’s.

Families are also being encouraged to explore the church through a “mouse trail”. Twelve mice have been hidden around the building, creating a treasure-hunt-style activity for children and their families.

Mike said the wider ambition was for people to know more than simply the building itself.

“Pilgrim Place” is being presented as an opportunity to engage with local parishes and the wider community, creating a space where people can explore heritage while discovering more about the life and message of the church.”

Visit the Pilgrim Places website for more information