Elsted church

St. Paul's church

St. Paul’s is a medieval church situated on a small raised mound close to the centre of the Sussex downland village of Elsted.

The church dates from the 11th century and documents show that it was held by Bishop Osbern of Exeter in 1086. It was originally dedicated to St. Michael, but was rededicated to St. Paul in the mediaeval period.

The church fell into disrepair in the 1850’s when the parish worship was focussed at St. Peter’s church in Treyford. Restoration attempts were halted by the destruction of the nave when a tree fell on it in 1893. The church was restored through the efforts of the Revd. F.E. Parkhouse and was rededicated in 1951 by Bishop Bell of Chichester.

The fact that the church survives today is a testament to the commitment and dedication of Revd. Parkhouse, and a gentle reminder of the combined power of faith and works.