St Paul's Church, Ramsbottom

St Paul's Church
The Parish Ramsbottom, St John and St Paul
Stained Glass in St Pauls Church
Location	Bury
Country	England
Denomination	Church of England
Churchmanship	Broad Church
Website	Church website
History
Dedication	St. Paul
Consecrated	23 Oct 1850
Architecture
Functional status	Active
Heritage designation	Grade II Listed
Designated	29 Jan 1985
Style	Early English style
Groundbreaking	23 May 1844
Administration
Province	York
Diocese	Manchester
Archdeaconry	Manchester
Parish	Ramsbottom
Clergy
Bishop(s)	Matthew Porter
Priest(s)	Rev. Ian Fleming [1]

St Paul's Church is a Church of England parish church in Ramsbottom, Bury, England. The Church is also known more completely as The Church of the Parish of Ramsbottom, St John and St Paul. It serves as an important religious and cultural landmark in the area.

Architecture and history

St Paul's Church was established in 1844, reflecting the growth of Ramsbottom during the Industrial Revolution. Consecrated in 1850, ^[2] it has been a pivotal part of the community for over a century, witnessing and adapting to various historical events and societal changes. The church has undergone structural and administrative transformations while maintaining its traditional values and practices.

The church exhibits architectural features characteristic of its era. Its design is a testament to the religious and cultural aesthetics of the mid-19th century, with notable elements in its interior and exterior that attract both parishioners and architectural enthusiasts. Standing the test of time, the church building is Grade II Listed, ^[3] this includes the beautiful Organ within.

In January 2024, Rev. Ian Fleming was appointed as the team rector, signifying a new phase in the church's leadership and direction. ^[2] Rev. Fleming had been curate for several years, and has been formally recognised by the parish, diocese and crown in the licensing.

Role in community

St Paul's Church plays an integral role in the Ramsbottom community. It has been involved in various community services, providing spiritual guidance, and fostering a sense of unity and support among its congregation. The church also adapts to modern needs while preserving its traditional values. The Church seeks to enable multiple events throughout the year which don't simply enable the church to survive financially but also further it's work. Such events include a Cafe every Saturday morning, an impressive Jigsaw festival each September and a large brass band event, whilst also being the heart of the community for events such as Remembrance Day. The church also actively encourages and trains local people to become bell ringers. ^[4]

References

1. "Manchester". Diocese of Manchester Directory. Diocese of Manchester, Church of England. Retrieved 23 June 2025.
2. "St Pauls Church, Ramsbottom – A Short History". iNostalgia. 5 June 2023. Retrieved 23 January 2024.
3. "Church of St Paul, Listing Status". Historic England.
4. "St Pauls Church, Ramsbottom – Whats On". Churches Near You.

53°38′55″N2°18′58″W / 53.64851°N 2.31619°W / 53.64851; -2.31619