History: Origin and Development of Norfolk Parish Churches, Churchwardens' accounts in 16th Century

The Origins & Development of Norfolk’s parish churches

Although medieval parish churches might appear to have been in place from the founding of a settlement, some were not: they may have been spawned from a mother church under the “system of Minster Parochiae.“ This lecture investigates how, why and where parish churches were established and built and how contemporary fashions and population growth led to “make-overs” at various stages over the centuries.

Churchwardens’ accounts in the 16th century

From the early Gothic period until the dawn of the Reformation, new styles of church architecture accompanied a building-boom and Churchwardens played a vital role administering and accounting for the ecclesiastical estate. Many East Anglian parishes have detailed and fascinating accounts of activity and developments in their churches particularly during the turmoil caused by King Henry VIII and his successors. This presentation brings to life a subject which is far from dry!

The Spiritual & Practical use of water in medieval monasteries

Water was a spiritual necessity to the early religious psyche. But as medieval monasteries developed into more sophisticated communities another argument becomes dominant; that water and its management was principally a response to utilitarian and practical needs. This is no dry subject and the soul-cleansing ritual of water through to the flushing of latrines is examined, offering a fascinating insight into monastic life.