Hidden amongst the bustling streets of Warley stands Christ Church a testament to faith and perseverance. This magnificent church wasn’t always the grand building we see today. Its story begins in the vibrant 1850s a time when Warley was experiencing rapid growth.
Dr Robinson the Rector of Great Warley saw the need for a new place of worship. The expanding population particularly in the North end of his parish lacked a convenient church. So he initiated the construction of Christ Church in 1853. The East India Company generously donated the land. They owned the nearby Warley Barracks. This highlights an interesting connection between military life and the spiritual needs of the community.
The architect Samuel Teulon a notable figure also behind parts of Warley Hospital designed Christ Church. John Hammond undertook the construction. The estimated cost was a substantial £4200 for that time. The consecration finally took place on 29th March 1855. The original building comprised only the nave and tower. There was a simple recess at the Eastern end and a wooden gallery at the West end. The vestry occupied what is now the organ loft. Imagine the humble beginnings.
The church underwent several expansions. In 1877 a South aisle was added. Notice boards in the Vicar’s vestry record grants for this addition. These grants came with a condition that a number of free seats be made available for the poor parishioners. This shows the church’s commitment to social justice. The chancel and the present Vicar’s vestry followed in 1891. The stone reredos in the chancel came from the original chapel in Warley Hospital. Look closely; you might still see where the base was built up to accommodate a step in the floor.
Further improvements included the installation of electric lighting in 1930 although the estimate was obtained in 1926. The original gas lighting pipes might still be visible in the roof. The wooden gallery sadly succumbed to woodworm in 1956. Look for the remaining door now visible as an internal window high in the Western wall.
Christ Church continued to evolve. Internal reordering took place in 1990. This involved removing choir stalls and pews. The pulpit returned to its original position. The church received new carpeting. Volunteers from the congregation meticulously restored the pews. In 2006 a new audio-visual system was installed. More pews were removed to make space for a meeting area complete with coffee and tea facilities.
Take a moment to explore Christ Church Warley. Admire the memorials. The Vicar’s vestry houses interesting pictures. These include a depiction of the church as it was first built. Examine the stained glass windows especially the “Earthy window”. This house of prayer has witnessed countless prayers and celebrations. Let its history inspire your own faith and hope.