Despite surviving two World Wars, a Salford church may have to close permanently due to loss of money caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Since being built 155 years ago, St Luke’s Church, in Weaste, also known as The Church on the Hill, has seen many historic moments including hosting Emmeline Pankhurst’s wedding in 1879.
Reverend Charles Gorton, who has been at the church for more than 10 years, said: “Financially the church has taken a huge hit. We’re running into bankruptcy.
“It’s a community church, so it would be a great loss to the community. I love it, the community love it, it’s really well used.”
St Luke’s Church saw around 400 people through the doors each week before the pandemic, with plans at the start of the year for 18 weddings and 35 christenings before the enforced closure.
The church, on Liverpool Road, was designed in 1865 by George Gilbert Scott, and holds memorials for the victims of World War One, World War Two, and a great organ in memory of the victims of The Blitz.
The church is especially used by St Luke’s C of E Primary School. Headteacher Tim Delves said: “The church simply is the school’s spiritual home.
“The children and I are really passionate about making sure we still have our church around to be able to come and celebrate and worship together.”
Mr Delves continued: “Watch this space – there’s nothing more powerful than 400 children that have got an opinion, and the children of St Luke’s will certainly be voicing their opinions.”
So far, just over 30 per cent of the £10,000 needed has been raised on the Church’s JustGiving page, including donations made by Salford Mayor, Paul Dennett, and St Luke’s Arts and Drama Society. However, Reverend Charles Gorton added that the £10,000 would: “Only pay the bills and keep us going up to April.”
To help save St Luke’s Church, donate via the JustGiving page here.
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