15th Century Rood Screen

The parish church of which this is a part known as 'The Lady Chapel' has stood on this site for 800 years. Why would it not endure for a few centuries more?

First, it is a question of general maintenance and upkeep. That needs funding, and funds come from the weekly collection plate. The problem is that church congregations have progressively dwindled. Thus essential work will be postponed.

Secondly, this church is built on weak foundations. The original builders thought they were dealing only with clay. They did not know that beneath the clay lay gravel which of course drains the clay. So the ground is wet, and then it is dry, and then it is wet again. One corner of the church has already slumped by several inches.

Thirdly, global warming and climate change. There is a river close to this church. Flooding is prevalent in this area. Repeated floods cause much damage.

Fourthly, several nations now possess weaponry of the most destructive force. There is tension between nations. Sooner or later one of them will resort to atomic bombs. Even a bomb some way distant from this church could destroy it beyond repair.

All or some of this could happen within the next 50 years.

Nikon D700 and Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5 AI lens.