“Turn again Whittington Lord Mayor of London Town.” That is what Dick Whittington heard. It may also be what you’ll hear when you learn about the Church of the Chimes. This church in Sherman Oaks boasts a rich history. It is more than just a place of worship. It is a landmark with unique architectural features.
The Church of the Chimes offers easy access to the 101 and 405 Freeways. This makes it a convenient location for locals and visitors alike. Its beautifully landscaped grounds feature walkways and a pool. These provide a serene environment for reflection.
The church includes a 600-seat chapel and a smaller 125-seat chapel. These spaces accommodate different sizes of gatherings. There is also a school with classrooms, an auditorium, and a kitchen. This supports educational and community activities. An administrative residence is on-site. It features dressed offices and a living room. This provides a functional space for church operations. Ample surface lot parking is available. This can serve as a base camp or crew parking for events.
The Church of the Chimes is known for its beautiful music. Alan, the pianist, is spectacular. The choir led by Greg is a gift to us all. The church’s website is churchofthechimes.org. It describes the church as Congregational Church of the Chimes.
Chimes have a long and storied past. The world’s most famous chimes are the Westminster chimes. Nearly everyone associates these chimes with the Victoria Clock Tower of the House of Parliament in London. Originally they were fitted to the clock of the University Church, St. Mary’s the Great, in Cambridge, England. The words come from Handel’s symphony. They say, “Lord through this hour, Be Thou our guide. So, by Thy power No foot shall slide.”
The Whittington Chime comes from the Church of St. Mary’s le Bow in Cheapside, London. Legend says Dick Whittington heard the chimes. He was running away from ill treatments. He seemed to hear, “Turn again Whittington Lord Mayor of London Town.” Dick turned back. Eventually he served three terms as London’s Lord Mayor.
St. Michael Chimes have significance in the United States. The bells were cast in London. They were installed in St. Michael’s Church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1764. The British took over the city. They took the bells back to England. A Charleston merchant bought them and shipped them home. Cracks were found in some bells in 1823. They were returned to London to be recast. In 1862, during the siege of Charleston, the bells were moved to Columbia for safekeeping. Sherman’s army set fire to that area. Old fragments were found. They were returned to London once more. In February 1867, the bells were installed again. On March 21st, they rang out. “Home again, Home again from a foreign land.”
Norman conquerors of England rebuilt the Winchester chimes in 1093. Bishop Walkilin demolished and rebuilt them. He was a kinsman of William the Conqueror. The cathedral central tower fell in 1107. It was soon rebuilt. This forms part of the present Cathedral in Hampshire, England.
The Church of the Chimes stands as a testament to community. Its architecture and the sounds of its chimes create a unique atmosphere. It is a place where history and faith come together.