Here stands St Thomas with St Stephen. What began as two separate entities is now a unified parish. St Stephen’s Church was built in 1849 and consecrated in 1850. Anthony Salvin designed it in the Gothic Revival style.
Let’s step back in time to appreciate its origins. St Stephen’s was a Commissioners’ church. It was built with money voted by Parliament. Bishop Blomfield largely bore the cost of building the church. James Gomme provided part of the site. He is commemorated in a stained-glass window.
Imagine the church filled with 600 people during its consecration. The Ecclesiologist praised the church’s design. It highlighted the diocesan’s commitment to reviving certain features. The interior was admired for its well-developed chancel. The churchwardens of Finchley gifted the font. The Bishop of London presented a silver alms plate.
William Cooke became the first vicar of St Stephen’s. He was a hymn writer and translator. In 1851 the church school opened. Salvin also designed it. The vicarage was added two decades later.
Originally St Stephen’s stood amid fields. The District Parish extended far. As the 19th century progressed development increased. The church became a central feature in Shepherds Bush. By 1861 the population had increased significantly.
Uxbridge Road was a key route to the West Country. Shepherds Bush Green was a place for sheep drovers. A significant change occurred with the development of exhibition grounds. The area became known as the White City.
During a bombing raid in 1940 the church was badly damaged. The spire was damaged beyond repair. The original stained-glass windows were destroyed.
In 1949 repairs began. The spire was replaced by a copper flèche. In 1950 centenary celebrations were held.
The 1950s saw immigrants from the West Indies settle nearby. St Stephen’s welcomed what became known as the Windrush Generation. In 1962 Wilfred Wood became curate. He later became the Church of England’s first black bishop. Bishop Wood’s influence is still felt today.
In 1958 the pipe organ was moved from another church. It was rebuilt by N P Mander Ltd. In 1960 the parish merged with St Thomas. It formed the parish of St Stephen’s and St Thomas.
In 1966 the Rev John Asbridge set up the Shepherds Bush Housing Association. It aimed to address the need for housing.
Today St Thomas with St Stephen ministers to a diverse congregation. The church is closely affiliated with the local primary school. A major redevelopment in 2009 added a hall and upgraded the church interior.
St Thomas with St Stephen stands as a testament to faith resilience and community. It welcomes all. It continues to evolve while honoring its rich history. Take a moment to appreciate the stories within these walls.