A wedding of epic proportions. That’s what the grounds of St John’s Wood Church whispered. Could you imagine the joyous chaos? St John’s Wood Church isn’t just a pretty building. It’s a living testament to London’s rich history.
Nestled near Lord’s Cricket Ground and Regent’s Park this Grade II*-listed church boasts a captivating past. Built in 1814 by the renowned Thomas Hardwick it started as a chapel of ease to St Marylebone Parish Church. Hardwick was also building the current St Marylebone Church simultaneously a remarkable feat of architectural prowess. The original extensive burial grounds closed in 1855. They reopened as St John’s Wood Church Grounds a public garden in 1886. Around 50000 graves lie beneath the grass including those of artist John Sell Cotman and prophetess Joanna Southcott.
St John’s Wood Church played host to many significant events. In 1953 it hosted the society wedding of Peggy Cripps and Joe Appiah. In 1969 Paul and Linda McCartney exchanged vows there. The church also held the funeral of Ursula Vaughan Williams in 2007. These events add to the church’s unique charm. It’s not just a place of worship it’s a place of history.
The church underwent restoration in 1991 under Michael Reardon. The chancel pavement was relaid in limestone. A new central altar replaced the high altar. A Church Hall complex was built in the 1970s. A statue of John the Baptist by Hans Feibusch stands proudly marking its completion.
Today St John’s Wood Church is a vibrant hub. It holds regular services for its 130-150 regular worshippers. Its electoral roll boasts 225 names. The church maintains its musical tradition. A professional octet leads the main Sunday service. An amateur Chamber Choir made up of congregants sings Evensong monthly. The church’s three-manual 52-stop organ by B. C. Shepherd and Sons is a magnificent instrument. The building opens daily from early morning to late afternoon offering a place of prayer and stillness.
St John’s Wood Church’s influence extends beyond its walls. It works with local churches in monthly services including letter-writing for Amnesty International. Clergy from St John’s Wood Church engage in scriptural discussions with representatives from the Liberal Jewish Synagogue and London Central Mosque. The Church Hall complex accommodates St John’s Wood Pre-Preparatory School during the day. A local youth club operates in the crypt on Monday Wednesday and Friday evenings. The hall serves local associations and charities such as ARC UK. Its past present and future intertwine. St John’s Wood Church stands tall a beacon of faith community and history.