This is a comprehensive, fully illustrated A-Z guide to churches dating from the post Roman period to the present day. Subjects covered include architecture, fittings and furnishings, decorative and allegorical features, stained glass, heraldry, traditions and customs, ecclesiastical history, and the role of the church in its community. Alphabetical entries consist of main entries from which cross-references lead on to a larger number of secondary entries. The companions illustrated throughout and include suggestions for reading and a list of useful addresses. Stephen Friar is a writer and historian. His previous books include ”The Companion to Heraldry”, ”The Companion to Local History”, ”The Companion to Cathedrals and Abbeys” and ”The Companion to Castles”, all published by The History Press.