Lady Chapel Restoration

Lady Chapel

Designed by the architect A W N Pugin, St Mary’s Church was completed in 1839. The Lady Chapel is the largest addition to the church since that date. Built in1853-1854, it is reputed to be one of the largest side-chapels in the country dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

The church and the Lady Chapel have witnessed several restoration and refurbishment schemes over the years. The last one on the Lady Chapel was in 1978/79. As well as painting and decorating the Lady Chapel, work was done on the sanctuary and the altar was brought forward to comply with the liturgical requirements of the Second Vatican Council.

It is over 35 years since that work was completed. The chapel is again in need of a major programme of cleaning, decorating and refurbishment. St Mary’s Church is a two star listed building so any scheme of this nature requires the approval of various organisations and authorities. This approval has been obtained and the work has started in January 2016. It is expected to take six months and should be completed by the end of June 2016. It will include:

  • Repairs to damaged plaster and paintwork.
  • Rewiring and new light fittings to improve lighting levels.
  • Blue paint on the 100 ceiling panels over the nave to be removed and the panels restored to their original condition.
  • Remove a step in the Sanctuary floor
  • New carpeting
  • Improved heating system
  • Upgraded sound system.
  • A new lectern
  • General clean-up of walls and ceiling.
Image example of St Mary's Newsletter Ceiling panels over the nave
Image example of St Mary's Newsletter Ceiling panels over the sanctuary

The total cost of the work will be over £250,000

St Mary’s Parish has set aside funds over many years to finance the maintenance and improvement of its beautiful and historic buildings. The hope is, however, that current and former parishioners and others who worship here will rise to the challenge of raising funds to contribute towards these renovation costs.

Everyone involved with the Lady Chapel restoration project will be contributing to the legacy of this historic and architecturally important Derby landmark. Many Derby families have marked significant milestones in their lives at St Mary’s Church and it holds a very special place in their hearts. When completed we are confident the beauty of the Chapel will justify the title it has been given informally as “Derby’s Marian Shrine”.

Ways in which you can contribute to this renovation project:

  • Making a donation to St Mary’s specifying that it is for the renovation project.
  • Arranging a fundraising event and donating the proceeds.
  • Making a regular donation by Standing Order.
  • Leaving a gift in your Will to St Mary’s Church.

Please contact us for more information, and see our twitter feed below for more updates.

Lady Chapel Christmas Quiz Edition 2 December 2016

Download the Lady Chapel Quiz December 2016

Minimum Donation £2 Please

One entry, from those with most correct answers, will be drawn on the closing date of 24 January 2017 and will win a cash prize of £50. All remaining donations will go to St Mary’s Lady Chapel Restoration Fund. Registered Charity No: 1134449 Nottingham Roman Catholic Diocesan Trustees

Perhaps you would consider copying, e-mailing or Facebook-sharing this link with your friends and family – every pound helps.

Update:

Thank you for taking part in the quiz, here are the answers

Image example of St Mary's Newsletter

See the History pages for more information on the church.