Three decker

English Heritage had a lot of open days today, especially for places that are not usually open to the public. We walked round a few in Chichester, including St John’s Chapel just off East Street. You might think from its plain interior that it is Non-Conformist but in fact it is Anglican. No longer open for worship.

But this three decker pulpit caught my eye. Even though it was an essential part of the Georgian church or chapel, I don’t recall ever seeing one before. The lower desk was occupied by the Parish Clerk who was not ordained but who had the job of leading the congregation in the responses, psalms and hymns.

The Minister occupied the middle desk. He led the service from here. But to preach his sermon, he would climb the stairs to the third level, from where he would be able to see the people in the gallery as well as those below. He could also keep an eye on the clock to time his sermon if he was so minded. I think a fair few of them didn’t bother about the time! The pulpit is made of American black birch, and amazingly supported on a single wide column, rather like the barley twist you get in furniture or bannisters.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about the picture is the organ in the gallery area. It is no longer an organ, but a trompe l’oeil. The original organ is in pieces behind the painting, probably and sadly never to be assembled again.

The whole building is Grade1 listed, and in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Opened in 1813 as there was a shortage of spiritual accommodation in Chichester, even though there were 7 parish churchs, all tiny.

Super day out, right up my street, being able to have a nosy where you’re usually not allowed!


My latest tumour count result is in, and unexpectedly excellent. After 3 static results, and all the allergic reactions, I had been starting to believe the only way forward was more dreaded treatment. Suddenly out of the blue, the count drops from 10 to 7, that’s about 30percent, a good and life affirming result. No one ever gets down to zero, so I’m right where I wanted to be. Lucky me:-) Thank you to everyone who sent good wishes and thoughts. I’m convinced every one of them carries a lovely energy that helps me along to the future:-)))