Before the union of the Presbyterian Church of England and the Congregational Church in England and Wales to form the United Reformed Church in 1972 Downing Place United Reformed Church was known as two separate congregations. Emmanuel and St Columba’s. Both trace their heritage back to the writings of John Calvin in the 16th century. They dissented from the Church of England differing in liturgy and organization.
Downing Place United Reformed Church in Cambridge stands proudly today. Its history is a rich tapestry woven from two distinct threads. Emmanuel Church originally a congregational church. Its first building was the Great Meeting in Hog Hill now known as Downing Place. It later moved to Trumpington Street in 1874 changing its name at the same time. St Columba’s a congregation of the Presbyterian Church of England was formally established in 1879. They held services in the Cambridge Guildhall until their building opened on the present site at the corner of Downing Street and Downing Place in 1891.
The timing of St Columba’s construction was significant. New statutes at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge allowed students to graduate without declaring membership in the Church of England. Emmanuel’s new building designed to make a statement had a spire taller than the Chapel of Pembroke College across the street. St Columba’s building was more discreet seeking contributions from Scots and Irish ex-patriates in Cambridge.
Both churches attracted large congregations. They appealed to both town and gown. The arrival of Westminster and Cheshunt theological colleges strengthened denominational links. The churches also cooperated with other denominations. By the 1930s they were drawing closer to Anglican churches in the city center.
The churches faced internal divisions such as disagreements over conscientious objection during the 1914-18 War. Despite this both fellowships sought to provide a preaching ministry within an ordered framework of worship. They adapted to societal changes.
Before the 1972 URC union the congregations held joint services. A team ministry was even proposed. The merger of Westminster and Cheshunt Colleges foreshadowed the church combination that was discussed. The two congregations retained their distinct ethos. Student societies collaborated forming PRONGSoc and URCSoc. The URC then united with other groups. Churches in Cambridge reassessed their roles.
A ministerial vacancy at Emmanuel coincided with redevelopment plans for the Mill Lane area. Pembroke College purchased the Emmanuel site leasing it back until September 2020. This sale enabled St Columba’s and Emmanuel to unite as Downing Place URC in June 2018. The renovated St Columba’s building became their new home. A new chapter begins here.