Becoming a Friend of St Martha’s would help considerably to keep the church in good repair. St Martha-on-the-Hill is the Parish church of Chilworth linked with St Thomas in the valley. Any funds raised by the Friends of St Martha’s is ring-fenced for the upkeep of this church.
We are hoping, by sending out regular Newsletters, that Friends and the wider community of visitors who know and love the Pilgrims’ church will continue to be involved with this special building.
There has been a church on the top of St Martha’s Hill Guildford, for over a thousand years. This very special building stands, not only as a place of Christian worship, but also as a landmark 570 feet above sea level on the North Downs. Because of its exposed position to the weather, maintenance of the fabric of the church is a constant challenge. We do not receive any grants towards the upkeep of both the exterior and interior of the building and therefore we depend on the generosity, not only of the congregation and local communities in Guildford, but also visitors from further afield.
Besides the annual services such as the Christmas Carol Service and Harvest Festival, we now host some wonderful music concerts that are growing in popularity since their inception in 2011. Adults, children and dogs all welcome at these special events. Because the church is reached only by a sandy track arrangements can be made for those needing transport up the hill.
The church is on the Pilgrim’s Way between Winchester and Canterbury and is located between the manors of Chilworth and Tyting, both of which are mentioned in the Domesday Book. Many thousands of walkers climb St Martha’s hill each year to enjoy the magnificent views which spread out in all directions. It is said that 7 counties can be seen on a clear day. Within the church an atmosphere of peace and calm prevails.
St Martha-on-the-Hill church in its various forms has survived for centuries because of the generosity of many benefactors throughout its long history. The preservation of this heritage is vital and we hope that you may wish to help towards the costs of keeping this special church open and in good repair for future generations by becoming a Friend of St Martha’s.
Subscriptions:
- £10 - Individual
- £15 - Joint at same address
- £200 - Life
- £300 - Joint Life
If you would like to become a Friend of St Martha's please download and complete this membership form.
For further information contact Helen on 07710570909 or Janis on 01483 440123.