We chose this Church as it was one of the first fouded in the County - though not much of the original Saxon remains, the first building was built in about 1830, and the dedication is to Kenelm, who was murdered (by his sister) in 819.
Though there was no local guide (but refreshments courtesy of Gill, to whom thanks) we were greatly assisted by a history of the Church and Village "St Kenelm's and Enstone, an Oxfordshire Village Church and it's Parish" from 2014, Author Sally Coles publisher the Enstone History Society; there's also an A4 trifold leaflet in the Church and some notes on the various stages of construction from 1955.
Kenelm, after his death, apparently appeared as a Dove to the then Pope, who Sanctified him, hence his being "Saint" Kenelm.
The Parish is of course in the Domesday Book, where 6 slaves were mentioned ... in 1086, slaves were a thing evidently.
The book is excellent as it puts the Church in context both in history and its locale ... and culture, as well - the Reformation, the Rood Screen was destroyed - there is scant evidence of it now - and the psycological impact on the population is covered - in dreary, humdrum, lives, the Church woujld have been a place of colour, brightness - but destroyed by the Iconoclasts.
The building has changed much over time, and there's a good account of the various extensions and additions, including a parvoir over the Porch (and the porch itself). The booklet was written in 2012, so does not mention the reordering that took place, commencing in 2016 and completed, where a servery, accessible toilet were installed, beautiful, new, light, modern, moveable benches were installed, and the most marvellous new reredos, mosaic in oak framing - so when you enter the building, you are surrounded by history but, at the same time, in a place that is bright, light, modern, beautiful, and reflects the faith that has been celebrated here for the past 1200 years.
The book mentions that the Church is a centre for village life - it would have been in medieval times, with many activities taking place - and long may that continue.
I took a few photos! enjoy.
