St. Giles

The parish church of Kilmington has served the village well
It's the heart of the community as anyone can tell
Residents have worshipped there for many hundred years
Through the good times and in conflict with many smiles and tears

St. Giles is the patron saint, a hermit with a hind
Renowned for his devotion and compassion for mankind
He helped the poorest cripple and children with their fear
An example for parishioners to carry on each year

The church it stands majestic in a graveyard so serene
With a view right over Axe Vale, a tranquil rural scene
The tributes and the gardens are tended with much care
Visitors can almost feel God's presence moving there

The stained glass in the sanctuary paints colours on the wall
Whilst the silence and the atmosphere envelop one and all
The choir leads the faithful when hymns and psalms are sung
The congregation praising God for sending us his son

The bells ring out at service times to welcome people in
Inviting all to join and hear God's message from within
Inspired by the patron saint the community is strong
With kindness and pastoral care God's loving work goes on

The church and village are both gifts, sent from God on high
Together with the blessing of the countryside nearby
The Christian welcome at St. Giles will nourish all who come
With parishioners all thanking God for all that he has done

This poem was a finalist in the March 2018 poetry contest