Curious about a church with a story stretching back centuries? Then let me tell you about Holy Trinity Anglican Church. This church is more than just stones and mortar. It is a living testament to faith. It is a welcoming beacon for English-speaking worshippers on the French Riviera.
Holy Trinity Anglican Church has a rich history. For over 200 years, it has been a center of Christian worship. Specifically, it caters to English speakers. Imagine, a haven of familiar traditions. It is a place amidst the beauty and culture of the French Riviera.
A group of British winter residents sought permission in 1820. They wanted to establish a Protestant place of worship in Nice. The King of Sardinia granted this request. At that time, he ruled Nice from Turin. The foundation stone was laid in September 1821. By the following November, the building was complete. There was one condition. It had to look like an ordinary house.
Revd Lewis Way performed the first service. It took place on Advent Sunday 1822. He was the driving force behind the Promenade des Anglais construction. This promenade is now world-famous. The first church quickly became too small. It was demolished. The current church saw its Consecration Ceremony on December 22, 1862. The first Bishop of Gibraltar officiated.
Holy Trinity Nice gained official recognition. It was classified as a monument historique in November 2020. As such, it forms part of Nice’s rich cultural heritage. In July 2021, the city received Unesco World Heritage status.
The church celebrated its bicentenary in 2022. It marked 200 years of Anglican worship in Nice. The celebrations began with the Feast of the Holy Trinity. It fell on the second weekend in June. The presbytery hosted two chamber concerts. Margi MacDuffie and Joe Voelker performed. All proceeds went to Ukraine. A Scottish-style ‘Tea & Dance’ took place in the church gardens. Tea was followed by an apéro. Light entertainment was included. Bob Tonkiss, Holy Trinity’s secretary, wrote a special Bicentenary March. Ceilidh dances entertained all generations.
Richard Challoner, resident historian and Church Warden gave an illustrated talk. He spoke about Holy Trinity’s early years. The recently refurbished parish hall hosted the event. Brass Band Méditerranée gave an exhilarating concert. The second half featured music specially arranged. Roy Terry, a longstanding member of the congregation, conducted.
The 200th anniversary of the first service was also celebrated. It was held on Advent Sunday. Rev. Terry Winrow and Archdeacon Peter Hooper jointly officiated. Members of St Hugh’s Church in Vence joined the celebration. A special buffet followed the service. Parishioners provided it. Sadly, summer 2022 also brought the sudden death of Revd Peter Jackson. He was the chaplain of Holy Trinity.
Today, Holy Trinity Anglican Church extends a warm welcome. You can find it steps away from the Promenade des Anglais. It’s at 11 rue de la Buffa. The church provides a historic building. It gives a quiet space for contemplation. It also fosters a vibrant church community. The church generally welcomes visitors. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays are the days. The hours are 10 am to 5 pm. As you leave Holy Trinity Anglican Church, consider the enduring legacy. It is a testament to community and faith.