St. Alfred: Patron Saint of Preachers

Things you sometimes notice in church. . .

Our church in central Bath was built in 1789. Consequently, it is filled with brass plaques in memory of different individuals. These plaques are normally attached to a piece of furniture, a stained glass window or some other gift that was left in memory of the deceased saint. Central has a 'high pulpit' which is quite prevalent in Congregational churches. During the hymn prior to the reading of the gospel I climb the steps and sit with my birdseye's view of the congregation. As the gospel was being read this morning, I glanced around the pulpit and noticed a plaque that had not caught my attention in 20 months since we arrived. The pulpit was given in honour of Alfred Hitchcock. Could it be? No, although Hitchcock was born in London I seriously doubt that he was an Elder at Central or the Church Secretary. But, it added a bit of comic relief. I'm sure I'll have an opportunity to use it in the future. Remember, most folks never go up in to the pulpit. It is considered 'sacred' ground. So, I doubt if many folks are aware that the plaque even exists.