God’s Acre 

Once, churchyards and burial grounds reflected the abundant wildlife of the countryside around them but now they represent islands of refuge for plants and animals lost from the surrounding area. Often they are the only green space in villages, providing a focus for community activity and a peaceful, tranquil place for quiet reflection. 

They are also important places for archaeology and history, revealing evidence of the past and documenting the lives of people who have lived and worked in the parish. The buildings themselves form a backdrop to the social history and reveal the local craftsmen’s work and the building style of the area. 

During 2007-08, the Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service and partner organisations are working with interested church community groups to help develop ideas and projects. This may involve local historical research or surveying of trees and plants, provision of benches or helping to produce leaflets – whatever it is, through the God’s Acre Project, help is on hand to ensure that churchyards will be cared for and appreciated by all.  

So as you are exploring the Wolds, why not visit some of these special places – take time out of your busy day to wonder at the detail of the carvings, the colour of the stain glass, the butterflies flitting amongst the flowers and reflect on those who, over the years have worked to ensure churchyards have been kept special for locals and visitors alike, retaining its rightful place as the heart within villages.