Faithful companion. That’s how they remember her. Faith the cat of St Augustine Watling Street.
St Augustine Watling Street wasn’t just any church. It stood near St Paul’s Cathedral a vital part of London’s history. First mentioned in 1148 it survived centuries of change. The Great Fire of London in 1666 didn’t destroy its spirit. Christopher Wren rebuilt it.
Its beauty was remarkable. The interior boasted Corinthian columns and a carved oak pulpit. It was a place of worship and community. People like John Douglas later Bishop of Carlisle and Salisbury served as rectors. Richard Harris Barham author of the Ingoldsby Legends also served there.
Then came World War II. The bombing raids left St Augustine Watling Street in ruins. Faith the church cat a stray adopted by the congregation. She became a legend. Days before the bombing she moved her kitten Panda to safety. She refused to leave her. After the raid Faith was found amidst the rubble still guarding Panda. This act of bravery earned Faith a medal. Her story spread around the world.
Today St Augustine Watling Street is gone. Only parts remain incorporated into St Paul’s Cathedral Choir School. Yet Faith’s story and the church’s history live on. They are a reminder of London’s resilience and the enduring power of faith. Faith’s grave lies in the churchyard. A marker reads “Faith the cat who defied the London Blitz”. It’s a fitting tribute to a remarkable animal and a remarkable church.