Over the centuries, the worship of God has attracted gifts to our parish churches and inspired the finest craftsmen, leaving a legacy of unknown riches, often hidden in dark vestry corners, bell towers and bank vaults.  Much of Britain's heritage that is concealed in churches and religious buildings is gradually being recorded by NADFAS volunteers.  Church Recorders systematically record the contents of churches throughout the country, covering monuments, stained glass, plate and metalwork, some stonework, woodwork, textiles, paintings, libraries, bells and musical instruments.  With diocesan and parish permission, written, drawn and photographic records are produced.  Experienced leaders closely supervise the work of volunteers, each of whom is given a detailed manual of instruction before the project begins.

When the Church Record is completed, five copies are lodged with:

   - the church

   - the diocesan or other local church authorities

   - the Council for the Care of Churches

   - the Victoria and Albert Museum

   - the National Monuments Record Centre (English Heritage)

Who benefits?

   - the church authorities who have a complete furnishing record

   - the police who use our accurate descriptions and photographs to

   - Insurance companies who use our Records to identify items

   - Researchers who are producing theses and books on allied subjects

While we have recorded over 1000 churches nationally there is still plenty of scope to record the numerous churches and religious buildings in this country. In Sussex we have recorded 73 churches and 12 are currently being recorded.