St Mary's church in lutterworth is a 13th century church in the centre of the town, and is closely related with John Wycliffe, the 14th century reformer, who was the rector from 1374 - 1384. During his time here he worked on an English translation of the bible which he completed in 1382, the first recorded translation. He died of a stroke in 1384 during mass. His body was interred in the church but in 1415 he was declared a heretic by the church, and in 1428 pope Martin V had his body exhumed and his remains were burnt and the ashes scattered in the river swift.The church used to have a spire but this was blown down in a storm in 1703, so a top stage was added to the tower in 1761. Inside the church is a 19th century state of John Wycliffe, and also 2 wall paintings, a 15th century resurrection painting and a medieval painting which was discovered during renovation work carried out in 1860.
The font and the pulpit are said to date back to the time of Wycliffe.
St Mary's church in lutterworth is a large and imposing church with many features which make it one of the most historically important churches in Leicestershire. There is parking close by, and the church is open most of the day with tea and coffee available 10-12 most days. It is well worth a visit and a look around.
''If anybody would like to expand this series please do. I would just ask that you could let Sadexploration know first at churchmicro@gmail.com so he can keep track of the church numbers and names to avoid duplication.
there is also a Church Micro stats and information page found via the bookmark list.''