The Minister Church of St Mary is very much at the heart of Axminster, both in terms of its role in the community and its physical location at the very centre of the town. The banner design is one that also now features in the road signs that welcome people to Axminster. 

The church has Norman origins, although much of the building dates from the 13th-15th centuries. It has been in existence since at least AD 789, when it was identified as the burial place of Cynehard the Atheling, heir to the throne of Wessex.

The Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin is one of eight local churches in the Axe Valley Mission Community.  Between them, they are the base for people to worship and meet for prayer, study, music, fellowship and social activities, and a place for individuals to come for quiet, reflection and personal time with God.