St James the Less Church, Lancing

The name Lancing suggests Saxon influence (the -ing suffix implied, in Saxon terms, a temporary settlement), and remains dating from the 6th century have been found nearby. Gradually, three settlements developed: North Lancing, closest to the Downs; South Lancing, near the coast; and the nearby Pende (now vanished), on the coast and briefly a successful port. In about 1180, an arched doorway, now forming part of the porch on the south side, was added. In the 17th century—especially after the Restoration of 1660—Anglican religious worship declined and many churches in England fell into disrepair. This attitude was common among the people of Sussex, where church attendances declined…

The church is built of flint cobblestones. Areas of pebbledashing remain, Ashlar has been used as well. The other doorway, in the west face, is similar to its south-face counterpart, but is more likely to be 15th-century than 12th-century. The king post roof of the nave has also been praised. Interior fittings include a 14th-century Easter sepulchre with an ogee-arched roof, part of a sedilia, some Norman friezework, and a 12th-century square font in good condition.

St James the Less Church was listed at Grade I by English Heritage on 12 October 1954. Such buildings are defined as being of "exceptional interest" and greater than national importance. As of February 2001, it was one of seven Grade I listed buildings, and 119 listed buildings of all grades, in Adur district. The style of worship in the church is Traditional Anglo-Catholic. A Said Mass is celebrated every Wednesday at 11am and the Sung Parish Mass every Sunday at 10.30am with music led by the organ and choir; all are welcome. The parish, in its present form, covers 2236 acre. The eastern boundary is the River Adur; the railway line between the river and Leconfield Road forms the southern…