On Sunday, the 18th of August, the two churches were opened for the first time since the Black Death, which killed 200 million people. Attendants were encouraged to walk the 1.5-mile route between the two ancient Christian churches. 

Douglas Chapman, the owner of Dode, began restoring the church 10 years ago. He stated: “People will get to visit two ancient churches and hopefully they will appreciate the history and work that has gone into them.”

Mr Chapman also emphasised the importance of survival and the relationship between the churches. Some of the stonework of St. Benedict – the church of Paddlesworth – is decayed, but most of it has been restored. 

Visitors had the chance to enjoy a photo exhibition, study old maps and historic documents, including one that dates back to 1367, when the parishes of Dode and Paddlesworth were united. Dode Church had already been closed by that time. The last priest serving in Paddlesworth was appointed in 1623. St. Benedict’s church closed in 1678. Later it was used as a barn and donated to the Churches Conservation Trust in 1976, when they initiated a conservation project.

Dode Church is used for weddings and christening ceremonies. It is open to the public once every six weeks. However, people can request a visit to St. Benedict’s church any time. 

Source: https://premierchristian.news/