What we do
We are here to help support, advise and guide parishes on all matters relating to the care, maintenance, repair and development of their churches and other parochial buildings.
Together with the Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of Churches (DAC), we strive to maintain a proper balance between the requirements of caring for the historical and archaeological significance of these precious buildings, and recognising that churches are living places of worship and mission with a need to adapt and become fit for purpose in the 21st century.
The Diocese of Ely is blessed with 334 churches, each of which represents the presence of the Church of England in every community in the country and is a testament to the lives of the many thousands of people who have worshiped, celebrated and sought solace and comfort there.
The care and maintenance of these extraordinary buildings (43% of which are Grade I listed and 40% Grade II*[1] in our Diocese) is a challenge faced by clergy and congregations alike.
Care of Church Buildings and Churchyards
- Visit our Care of Church Buildings and Churchyards pages for a wealth of advice and guidance.
- Use the search function to look for guidance on a particular topic.
- If you can't find what you're looking for, contact the Church Buildings team - email us at DAC@elydiocese.org, or call 01353 652729.
Faculty Jurisdiction (Amendment) Rules 2019
The management of all consecrated buildings and burial grounds falls outside the secular listed building regime by what is termed as the 'ecclesiastical exemption'.
Instead, they are subject to the Faculty Jurisdiction (Amendment) Rules 2019, which means that permission - either a Faculty, an Archdeacon's Authorisation under 'List B', or an Archdeacon's Licence - will be required for almost any change or work to be done to or affecting a church building, its contents or churchyard.
This system is in place to ensure that churches are properly cared for and that whatever work is undertaken is properly considered and undertaken in the most appropriate way.
The kind of permission required will depend on the kind of work to be done. In all cases, please contact the Church Buildings Department at an early stage to discuss your case and proposals so that we can guide and support you through the process, and work towards a positive outcome.
All faculty applications are now being made through the Online Faculty System - and the Church Buildings Department are happy to help should you need assistance navigating the process. We can also provide you with support and guidance as to applying for grants and funding for your works.
Further information about the Church Buildings Department, the DAC, the work that we do and the help we can offer can be found within this section of the website.
