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Bishop Frere in procession to St Pirans Oratory, Perranzabuloe, Cornwall. Between 1923 and 1935
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Royal Cornwall Museum
Bishop Frere in procession to St Pirans Oratory, Perranzabuloe, Cornwall. Between 1923 and 1935
A procession arriving at the oratory for a service under Bishop Frere. St Pirans Oratory survives as an early Christian chapel with all four walls standing. It represents the supposed site where St Piran, an Irish saint came ashore and established a Christian centre of worship in the sixth or seventh centuries AD. The site has a documented entry in the Domesday book. There is a small nave, chancel and stone bench around much of the interior plus a cemetery. Situated on Penhale Sands, east of Perranporth, the Oratory has been subject to blown sands over the years. Excavations were carried out in 1835 and 1843 and then railings were erected around the site in the 1890s. In 1910 it was re-excavated and a concrete preserving structure constructed over it. A large number of burials were uncovered during the works. The concrete shell was largely demolished in 1980 and the chapel reburied. The site was re-excavated in 2014-2015. Walter Frere (1863-1938) was appointed Bishop of Truro in 1923 and held this position until 1935. Photographer: Arthur William Jordan
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TRURI : PEZot.28
Media ID 18352974
© From the collection of the RIC
Crowd Ecclesiastical Gathering Penhale Sands Perranporth Religion Religious Site The Lost Church
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the solemn procession led by Bishop Frere as they make their way to St Pirans Oratory in Perranzabuloe, Cornwall. The historic oratory, dating back to the sixth or seventh centuries AD, stands proudly with all four walls intact, serving as a testament to the early Christian worship established by St Piran himself. Situated on Penhale Sands, east of Perranporth, this sacred site has endured the test of time and nature's elements. Over the years, blown sands have threatened its existence; however, dedicated efforts were made to preserve and excavate it. In 1910, a concrete structure was erected over the oratory for protection after extensive excavations uncovered numerous burials. Bishop Walter Frere played a significant role during his tenure as Bishop of Truro from 1923 to 1935. His presence in this procession signifies his commitment to upholding and honoring Cornwall's rich religious heritage. Photographer Arthur William Jordan skillfully captured this momentous occasion on film between 1923 and 1935. His lens immortalizes not only Bishop Frere but also highlights the enduring beauty and historical significance of St Pirans Oratory. This print serves as a poignant reminder of our connection to ancient traditions and spiritual devotion that continue to shape our lives today. It is an invitation for us all to reflect upon our own journey while paying homage to those who came before us at this hallowed place of worship.
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