Imagine women and girls gathering here. It’s the late 19th century. They are making artificial flowers in the basement of Woodbridge Chapel.
Woodbridge Chapel stands before us. It is more than just a building. It’s a testament to faith and community. This Grade II listed building has a rich story. It began in the mid 19th century. It was built for independent High Calvanists.
By 1895, a new mission took root here. It was “the Watercress and Flower Girls’ Christian Mission”. This mission provided support for blind and crippled girls. The chapel’s basement was deepened. Brick piers were replaced with iron columns. Steel beams supported the floor above. Windows were added so the basement could be used as habitable space. This space accommodated the girls’ Sunday School. Here, they practiced the art of making artificial flowers.
AAB architects were later appointed. They obtained consent for repairs. They also made alterations to the chapel and basement. The goal was to improve access. It was also for creating a new education space. A new floor was designed for the main chapel. It was in keeping with the building’s historic fabric. This created a level surface. It increased the building’s usability in the 21st century. The basement was converted into a community space. It is now used for education and social events.
Today, GraceLife London uses Woodbridge Chapel. They hold services here. Services are at 10:00 am and 12:30 pm on Sundays. They also have a Wednesday evening fellowship. It starts at 7:00 pm.
Woodbridge Chapel has evolved. It has served different purposes. It began as a chapel for High Calvanists. It then became a haven for vulnerable girls. Now it is a place of worship and community. The building stands as a symbol of adaptation. It also represents enduring values. It shows faith and service. The chapel continues to play a vital role. It enriches the lives of those who gather within its walls.