By John Baron
There’s something about St Thomas Church in Stanningley that’s always made it a little bit special.
The church has a magnificent stained glass window marking the lives of a young courting couple tragically killed after they were struck by lightning in 1869 which always feels particularly poignant and fascinating.
And today the church is bustling as busy volunteers prepare beautiful flower displays for a forthcoming wedding service.
But above all it’s the warmth of the people that makes this particular church stand out.
And after meeting the Reverend Lottie Jones – who only joined as priest in charge last September – you receive such a warm and friendly welcome that you soon realise St Thomas is in good hands.
In just a few months since her arrival from St Paul’s in Shadwell, the Rev Jones, 35, has already thrown herself into her mission to make the church welcoming and inclusive for everyone living in Stanningley and Swinnow.
“I knew very little about Stanningley and Swinnow initially,” she says with a smile. “But when I saw the parish profile I was really motivated by my desire to share God’s love with the community and I really felt I could help the church with that.
“I’ve been getting to know the community of Stanningley and Swinnow in my time here and I’ve been encouraged by the response I’ve head.”
Rev Jones has visited local schools and met community leaders and ‘brilliant’ councillors.
“I’d like to see a lot more community spirit,” she adds. “The area doesn’t really have a centre or a hub, like somewhere like Farsley has. Innovation is needed and I’d like the church to be a part of that, where people can come and worship and where community life can grow.”
Rev Jones is trying to make the church more accessible to all – and an Easter egg hunt aimed at people of all ages was one example of an event which brought the community together. A tea party on 5 July (2pm-3.30pm) aims to achieve something similar.
Work is also under way to provide monthly services which aim to draw younger people into the church.
When asked whether there is anything she might want to say to parishioners and the wider community, Rev Jones adds: “I’d just like people to know that the church is here for the people of Stanningley and Swinnow. This church is here for you.
“The world is quite scary at the moment but there is hope and that can be found in this church.”
