The stained glass lancers shimmer. Their colours dance in the afternoon light. This is the Richmond and Putney Unitarian Church. It’s a place of quiet beauty. A place of profound history.
The Richmond and Putney Unitarian Church stands proudly on Ormond Road. Its current building dates back to 1896. Architect T Locke Worthington designed it. The building features a stunning apse. Five magnificent stained-glass lancers grace the apse. Morris & Co created them in 1912. Their artistry adds to the spiritual atmosphere.
But the story of the Richmond and Putney Unitarian Church is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a story of unity. A story of merging congregations. The Putney Unitarian Church originally worshipped elsewhere. They met at the Wandsworth Unitarian Church. That church was unfortunately lost in 1967. A road-widening project claimed it. The Putney congregation found a new home. Their new church opened in 1968 on Upper Richmond Road. This too was designed by Kenneth Tayler. In 1985 the Putney and Richmond congregations joined forces. The Putney building found a new purpose. It became the All Saints Liberal Catholic Church.
The Richmond and Putney Unitarian Church is more than a place of worship. It’s a vibrant community. It welcomes people of all faiths. It embraces agnostics and atheists. It celebrates diversity. It offers a space for spiritual inquiry. The inherent worth and dignity of every individual are honored here. Regardless of background. Regardless of belief.
Sunday services are a central part of the church’s life. They’re even broadcast on Zoom. This makes the church accessible to many. The church also hosts various events and activities. These further enrich the lives of its members. One noteworthy offering is a Dance for Health class. It’s designed for people with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Dementia and MS are also included. People with impaired mobility benefit too.
The Richmond and Putney Unitarian Church. It’s a place of history. A place of community. A place of welcome. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and fellowship. A legacy of unity and acceptance continues to this day. It’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of Unitarianism. It’s a beacon of inclusivity in Richmond. A place where everyone feels truly at home.