Tockholes' Pulpit

St Stephen’s Church in Tockholes is ugly and modern, with a few historical relics thrown into the mix. In its grounds, however, is a schoolroom dating from the 1840s which has an outdoor pulpit. It looks rather peculiar and enjoys little use. Close by is the base and shaft of an ancient preaching cross, another location from which preaching was delivered without the benefits of roofing.

From time to time, people request that we have outdoor services at Salem Chapel, especially considering the fine views we enjoy to our rear. I always decline, because musical instruments, sound systems and chairs would usually be transported at great trouble and brilliant sunshine is not to everyone’s health and happiness. I also note that these requests only occur on 2-3 Sundays of the year. Much as I appreciate our four walls and roof on the other 49 Sundays, something has to be said for meeting outdoors, or taking the good news of the gospel to our urban centres, such as Manchester, Burnley and Clitheroe. Although unbelievers are invited to ‘come’, believers are urged to ‘go’. If the dying people of Britain won't darken our doors, we should go out our to brighten their lives. 

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15