Christ Church, Todmorden

Christ Church at Todmorden looks like an interesting, nineteenth century church building, with all the dignity and grandeur which that age bestowed upon its ecclesiastical constructions. Evidently now closed, it possesses a committed community group called F.O.C.C.T.: Friends of Christ Church, Todmorden, which possesses an impressive website. When I called in person, I was put off investigating the place by a sign which explained that it was a private residence, and that the owners’ privacy should be respected. I can see grounds for conflict between the community-minded locals and the privately-minded occupants. I understand that burial sites remain open to the public in case relatives and admirers wish to pay respects, but I did not wish to spoil someone’s day by putting the claim to the test.

I know of evangelical, nonconformist congregations which, unlike Christ Church, are fully functional but still appear to be privately owned. An overly powerful pastor, an aristocracy of longstanding members, a dictatorial deaconate: all may regard the local church as their personal fiefdom, and defend their proprietorial rights with all the energy of a medieval baron. The church is Christ’s, of course; we who enjoy (or suffer) office are answerable to real owner, the Groom, the King, the Lord Himself.

For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Ephesians 5:23

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