Veryan church building is the biggest on the Roseland. Nevertheless, it has a small congregation. But the size of the building makes it more adaptable, and the Parochial Parish Council (PCC) believes this presents an opportunity for the church to do more for the community.

Many congregations across the country are in decline and Veryan Parish Church isn’t immune to the situation. The PCC wants to encourage the community to make more use of its historic and very precious village church and is putting together plans which could open the church doors to more community events.

The council is considering altering the back of the church to create a small social area by moving some of the pews. The new community area would include a kitchenette and disabled toilet. The hope is that by creating a more welcoming and user-friendly environment parishioners of all ages will be encouraged to use the church as a venue for local groups, events, exhibitions, and concerts – encouraging local musicians needing a space to play to come and perform.

The Revd Douglas Wren, who is the new Oversight Minister for the Roseland said: “The best way to preserve an historic building is to ensure that it has a living purpose in each generation. I’m therefore excited by these initial conversations because I believe that they open-up new possibilities for this beautiful place and show us a community that cares about its future.”

The plans are in the very early stages and were only presented at the last meeting of the PCC. The council wants the community to be made aware of its plans so it can also have a say on what facilities there should be and how the church should be used. Ideas, that are in keeping with a church setting, would be welcome.

The initial plans will be on display at Veryan Church Fete on the Saturday 12 August.

In previous years musicians have played at the church – making use of its excellent acoustics – and the children’s Christmas Service, held for the first-time last year, was a huge success.

Next month, on 23 June at 7.30, the St Austell a folk and gospel group, The Devils Hatband, will be performing. Could this be the pastures new for Veryan Church?