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Wales - Copyright Photofusion / REX
UK News

New figures show rise in open churches in Wales

Two-thirds of Welsh churches are now regularly open during the week for people to drop in or for community activities. And the number is rising: last year saw a 4% increase in the number of open churches across Wales, which equates to 55 more churches.

The Church in Wales is urging churches to keep their doors open as much as possible, particularly during next week's half-term school holiday, so that they can be used by members of the public.

Alex Glanville, head of property services, says, "The architecture of many of our churches can give the impression of them being closed but the truth is that you stand a very good chance of being able to enter one of our churches at anytime during the day across Wales.

"Although the front door may look imposing and heavy, it will often be unlocked or a key advertised and available nearby. Doors are often closed to keep out birds but they are not locked to the human visitor.

"There has never been a better time to visit your local church. You will find a special place to sit and think or pray, to find out about history or admire artistic treasures. You may also meet one of the many hundreds of volunteers who help to care for and manage these special places."

Being freely open is challenging for some churches, with concerns over security and vandalism, as well as having sufficient volunteers holding many back. The Church's insurer, Ecclesiastical, is positive about the opening of churches in daylight hours as a vital element in the link churches have with the communities they serve, pointing out that visitors act as a deterrent to those with criminal intent.

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