Nick Miller

Church History in Leicestershire

Church History in Leicestershire charts the story of religion in England from pre-Christian times to the twentieth century, viewed through events and the eyes and experiences of people in Leicestershire. Weaving together ecclesiastical, political and social strands it chronicles the tortuous tale of religion, churches and the people who worshipped there.

Where did churches and chapels come from; who built them, when and why? What significance lies in their looks and names? What made people so devoted to them? Why do they still exist?

The book covers sweeping religious and political movements, potentates of church and state, but centre-stage are the clergy, their parishioners, churches and chapels: how they thrived or perished, weathered plague and invasions, grappled with their consciences during the Reformation and Civil Wars, founded powerful new denominations and championed social reform when Leicester(shire) became a hub of Christian Socialism and Secularism.

Closing sections reflect on the church’s past and future, as it faces debates as fundamental as any previously encountered.

“There is a great deal to learn from this thorough and accessible account of the history of the Church in this city and county. For custodians of the Christian faith in Leicestershire, it is incumbent on us to learn from history as we seek to ‘proclaim afresh’ the Gospel of Jesus Christ in this generation.” – Martyn Snow, the Right Reverend Lord Bishop of Leicester. 

"Clearly enormously well researched and fascinating for both scholars and the general reader. Its scope is staggering and offers a sound understanding of the shaping of our city and county." – Sir Peter Soulsby, the elected Mayor of Leicester