“Beside those spires so spick and span”. These words from John Betjeman stir a sense of religious belief. Welcome to the Ascension Church Centre. It stands as a landmark of faith on Lavender Hill.
The Ascension Church Centre has a rich history. It began with a dream. John Bourdieu Wilkinson dreamt of building a church on Lavender Hill. He wanted to proclaim the faith there.
Wilkinson’s dream started in his youth. He lived near Clapham Common. He looked over the fragrant lavender fields. He was inspired by Charles Fuge Lowder. Lowder was a priest at St Barnabas.
The protests and riots influenced Wilkinson. He wanted a place free from controversy. He envisioned an Anglo-Catholic center away from central London’s troubles. Wealthy laywomen supported his vision. Lady Anne Antrobus and Lady Boston were key founders. They provided significant financial support.
In 1872 Father Wilkinson, Lady Antrobus, and Mrs Duff-Gordon moved to Lavender Hill. Lady Boston’s generosity helped purchase the land.
The people of Shaftesbury Estate wanted a familiar church. They wanted it to resemble those in the East End. James Brooks was chosen as the architect. He was known for his Anglo-Catholic designs. The foundation stone was laid in 1874.
Brooks faced challenges. He had to spend a lot on the foundations. This alarmed his clients. He was replaced by J. T. Micklewaite and Somers Clark. They largely followed Brooks’ design. Cost overruns meant some features were cut. These included stone carvings and a steeple.
The Ascension Church Centre was consecrated in 1883. Bishop Anthony Thorold officiated. The church became a beacon of worship. Sadly Father Wilkinson died prematurely in 1885.
The Ascension Church Centre’s design is striking. It resembles the Cistercian Abbey Church of Our Lady at Pontigny. Its interior contrasts with its severe exterior. The interior creates a sense of other-worldliness. It focuses the mind on worship.
The high altar is an important feature. It is raised on three steps. It contains a relic of Blessed Maria Gabriella of Unity. The reredos depicts The Ascension, The Resurrection, and Pentecost.
The windows in the chancel apse are by C. E. Kempe. They depict various saints and prophets. The Blessed Sacrament Chapel holds special significance. It is a memorial to Father John Bourdieu Wilkinson. The chapel features a painting of The Descent of the Holy Spirit.
Mother Mary Caroline established the Shrine of Our Lady of Lavender Hill. It became a focus of prayer and intercession. Princess Helena even came to pray there.
In 1979 a fire threatened to destroy the church. The community rallied to save it. The Ascension Church Centre rose from the ashes.
Today the Ascension Church Centre stands restored. It is a testament to faith and community. The Catholic faith has been taught here from the beginning. The role of Mary has always been honored. It continues to serve the community.