Mention was made of a Christian church in Bourne since as far back as the Domesday survey in 1086. In the early 12th Century there was a great revival in religious thought and action, and this led to the present Bourne Abbey being formed in 1138. In the Middle Ages it is thought that schemes were drawn up to increase the size of the Abbey to be like that of a cathedral. However, this came to nothing and it has been suggested that the Black Death might have been the reason.
The Abbey was home to Arrouasian monks, a sub division of the Augustinians, and was one of only five connected to that order. In 1535 the Abbey was dissolved with the nave being used after that date as the parish church.
The nave is the oldest part of the present structure, dating back to 1138. The church is kept open for visitors and entering the nave through the west door my gut reaction was how impressive it is. It is bright and welcoming, particularly on a gorgeous day like this with sunlight streaming in through the south windows.
In the centre of the Nave is a beautiful brass chandalier, similar to one hanging at nearby Langtoft. This was donated in 1742 by Matthew Clay, in memory of his daughter who passed away at the age of 22.
The font is interesting. The carving around it reads, in a form of Latin shorthand, "Jesus, the name above all other names". There is evidence that, at one time, it was painted and gilded.
