Many churches have had re-ordering work carried out and modern catering and heating systems installed. As well as continuing to provide a centre for Christian mission and worship, such works can enable church buildings to accommodate events and activities that benefit and involve everyone in the community. The potential of church buildings to provide wider services to the community is widely recognised and grant aid may be available to help with this work.

View case study examples (Word document - large download)

Church buildings can be a great asset. Just getting them noticed in a positive way can be important. The Get Your Church Noticed site, linked to the book 100 Ways To Get Your Church Noticed, offers a number of useful ideas and resources.

The Diocese of Norwich is committed to opening as many of its churches as possible outside of normal service times. As well as providing a sacred space for worship, reflection and prayer, historic churches are of great interest to tourists and other visitors. Having an open church also provides additional opportunities to promote the Christian faith and the work we do within the local community.   For some further information take a look at the Open Churches area.

A Diocesan Open Churches Group has been established to progress and support initiatives aimed at encouraging more visitors to our churches.

On Friday 26 September 2008 the Diocese held a one day conference focussing on the promotion, management and sustainable development of Norfolk’s historic church buildings. Read the transcripts and view presentations.