Bishop Paul rededicates St Mary’s Newark as part of Reawakening Project

Last Sunday marked a truly remarkable occasion at St Mary Magdalene with St Leonard, Newark, as Bishop Paul led the official rededication service following the completion of a major repair and conservation project. The building works formed part of the wider “Reawakening of St Mary Magdalene” initiative, delivered in close partnership with the local community.

Revd Danny Marshall, Rector Designate, reflected on the significance of the day:

“The Service of Rededication of St Mary’s was a truly remarkable occasion in which we gave thanks to God for his faithfulness and provision. This is about far more than preserving a building; it is about equipping this place for a new season of mission and ministry as we look forward with curiosity and anticipation to all that God will do next, as we seek to be a beacon of hope for the town of Newark.

It was also a moment of rededicating ourselves, as the church here, to the gospel imperative of sharing the living hope we have in Jesus Christ.

I am deeply thankful to everyone who has made the completion of this work possible: our funders, our local professional team, and the project board. We must also recognise the many volunteers within the life of the church whose hard work and commitment have made the reopening of St Mary’s not only possible, but ready for the season ahead.”

The extensive works include a new café space, a platform extension, improved accessibility through new toilets, and a range of other enhancements. These upgraded facilities will support a variety of community uses, including repair cafés, refugee forums, children’s activities, and other local events. Since the completion of the restoration, the church has also reported an increase in visitor numbers.

Anna Herbert, Heritage Interpretation & Visitor Experience Manager, said:

“The building works undertaken as part of the Reawakening of St Mary Magdalene have re energised the church, and allowed us to engage with our local community in new and exciting ways, from hard hat tours, to work experience, volunteering to community activities and history tours.

It has offered a rare opportunity—not only to preserve a landmark of national importance—but to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in heritage, conservation, and traditional crafts.”

A team of eight tour guides is now in place, with hopes of further expanding engagement through enhanced church tours and visitor experiences.

St Mary’s is now once again open to visitors, offering daily guided tours for those wishing to explore its history and learn more about the building’s history. You can book your own tour here below.

Church Service Images Provided by: Newark Advertiser / Iliffe Media