Category: Churches

In the Domesday census of 1086, Gumley’s recorded population was 20. By 1821, this had risen to 289 before a gradual fall to 209 as shown in the 2011 census. The village is mentioned even earlier in year 749, when King Aethelbald of Mercia held a synod at Gumley under the instigation of Pope Boniface. Gumley must have been held in some importance as King Offa also visited Gumley in 772 and 779.

On 20 March, Kibworth Primary School's Year 5 students visited St Wilfrid's Church to experience 'The Road to Calvary', and learn about the final days of Jesus' life before his crucifixion on Good Friday, and about his resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Chronicle reader, George Keeping, has been sent photographs of St Helen’s church at Gumley showing some of the protruding faces (fourteenth century, it is believed) that decorate the lucarnes (little dormer windows) of the spire. George writes that these carving stick out on long ‘stalks’ are very unusual and may even be unique in Leicestershire and Rutland – they must be prone to erosion.

Methodist Matters - April 2024

For villagers in Church Langton, Kibworth, Foxton, and Great Bowden you might have heard on Easter Monday your church bells ringing for up to half an hour. Bell ringers from as far away as Cambridge and Desford descended on south Leicestershire. It was part of an Easter ‘tour’, visiting the towers of the four churches above. Some of the bells were even recorded. One of the ladies, Rebecca Banner from Desford bell ringers, is recording all the bells of Leicestershire. A joyful and very English sound and appreciated by all who heard them.

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims won’t eat or drink during the hours of daylight. This is called fasting. Children are not expected to fast until they reach puberty, usually around the age of 14.

Come and join us for our first Spring Fayre from 1 - 4pm in the Church Hall. Local business stalls, children's crafts, face painting, plants, refreshments and lots more! Raising much-needed funds for new and improved facilities. Free entry.

On a very showery grey day, for an hour in the afternoon the sun shone brightly through the stained glass window of Kibworth Methodist Chapel. The chapel was full with about 75 people present on St David’s Day for the World Day of Prayer.

Palm Sunday - 24 March

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and is a time when Christians reflect and prepare for the celebrations of Easter. Some people eat frugally or give up treats following the example of Jesus, who fasted for forty days in the wilderness. Others give to charity, set aside time to study the Bible and meet with other Christians to reflect on Jesus' life.