As part of our recent trip to York we visited old churches nearby.
St John the Bartist church at Healaugh dates from 1150 although, naturally, parts were added and rebuilt through the centuries that followed. While the interior has some interesting features, it is the arch above the south door that really catches the eye. The carvings, said to depict Judgment Day, are 12th century. The wooden door, clearly intended to keep undesirables out, is 15th century.
Our second church was at Kirk Hammerton, a few miles west. Also dedicated to St John the Baptist, this church is 200 years older than Healaugh’s with some beautiful features. Perhaps most surprising are the Pre-Raphaelite paintings in the church.
And the largest ancient church this weekend - although over 300 years younger than either of these - was York’s amazing Minster. I never tire of gazing at it.
