The space you are standing in is the west porch
… it is also called a narthex. It is Victorian and was built in the 1880s. Directly in front of you is the old font. It had not been used for baptisms for several years and was moved here in 2018.
Bequest boards, also known as Benefaction boards hang from the walls. They record charitable donations for the Poor of the Parish. The boards below the windows record the names of the clergy and churchwardens. Some are presently being repaired following water damage. The stained glass commemorates the Mercian king, Aethelred, the founder of St John’s. He is shown with a white hind which reputedly directed him to build a church on this site. The window was made by Trina Cox who had her studio in Watergate Street.
The foundation of St John’s church, in AD 689, is recorded on the board nearest the entrance door to the porch. It was recorded by Gerald of Wales when he visited Chester in 1188. He had just toured Wales with Archbishop Baldwin of Canterbury. They were recruiting Welshmen, who were renowned archers, for the Third Crusade.
Proceed through the doors into the nave …
The Font
The old font had not been used for baptisms for several years and was moved here in 2018.
Benefactor Boards
Bequest boards, also known as Benefaction boards hang from the walls. They record charitable donations for the Poor of the Parish.
Clergy & Churchwardens
The boards below the windows record the names of the clergy and churchwardens.
